Pseudoseizures - risk factors and prognosis

Abstract

Risk factors and prognosis for pseudoseizures were studied in a matched pairs case-control investigation of Epilepsy Clinic out-patients. The case group comprised 28 patients with pseudoseizures, 4 of whom were without a prior diagnosis of epilepsy. The control group consisted of 28 age- and sex-matched epileptic patients. There was a marked female preponderance, 86%, in the group with pseudoseizures. The frequency of previous psychiatric problems was significantly higher in the case- than in the control group, while the factors major cerebral damage and idiopathic generalized epilepsy were significantly less prevalent. At follow-up, median 5.8 years after diagnosis of pseudoseizures, 45% of the patients in the case group were free from all types of seizures. A significantly higher proportion of cases, 55%, were living on public disablement pension, compared to 23% of control patients.