Journal of Pediatric Epilepsy 2015; 04(03): 118-122
DOI: 10.1055/s-0035-1556735
Review Article
Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Paroxysmal Nonepileptic Spells in Adolescence

Erin Willis
1   Department of Pediatrics, Section of Child Neurology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, United States
,
Debopam Samanta
1   Department of Pediatrics, Section of Child Neurology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, Arkansas, United States
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

14 December 2014

11 January 2015

Publication Date:
21 August 2015 (online)

Abstract

Paroxysmal nonepileptic spells refer to events that clinically can resemble epileptic seizures but are not caused by abnormal epileptiform activity in the brain. These spells can often be difficult to diagnose owing to clinical similarities, but a correct diagnosis is needed to prevent unnecessary treatment with antiepileptic drugs. We review the most common diagnoses in adolescents that can be mistaken for epilepsy, including migraine, syncope, movement disorders, sleep disorders, and psychologic disorders.