Conversion and Anxiety: New Neuroimaging Evidence and Clinical Correlates

Abstract

In this presentation, we will present data from the first-ever, case-controlled neuroimaging study of pediatric psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) and discuss associations between neuroimaging findings and psychopathology of youth with PNES, including the role of anxiety-related symptoms and neural circuits. We will also review evidence of links between anxiety and conversion symptoms and discuss potential mechanisms underlying these disorders. Finally, we will report our functional neuroimaging findings on cognitive networks involved in conflict processing in youth with anxiety disorders.