Functional seizures (FS), also known as psychogenic non-epileptic seizures or PNES, are a type of functional neurological disorder characterized by seizure-like symptoms without associated epileptiform activity.[1] Pediatric FS account for approximately 10%-20% of patients presenting to outpatient neurology clinics in the United States,[2], [3] making it one of the most common diagnoses among those referred.[4] Pediatric FS are severely debilitating for patients and their families and are associated with significantly decreased quality of life.[5], [6] For example, children and adolescents with FS often experience bullying and are at increased risk of academic difficulties due to frequent absences and negative school responses to FS.[7] Children and adolescents with FS also report decreased peer relationships and engagement in extracurricular and social activities following the onset of FS.[8], [9] Caregivers of children and adolescents with FS are also impacted due to frequently taking off work to care for their child and the associated financial burden.[8] A recent study assessing the mean annual cost of FS for families found estimates ranging from nearly $5,000 to $87,000.[10]
MAY