Functional Neurological Symptoms

Question 1

What is a functional neurological symptom?

Answer 1

• Change in function rather than structure of a system, symptoms not explained by neurological disease

Question 2

What is a dissociative seizure?

Answer 2

• Seizure that occurs for psychological reasons rather than physical ones. Issue with how brain reacts to thoughts
• Accounts for 50% of status epilepticus

Question 3

What is Hoover’s sign?

Answer 3

• Hip extension is weak when tested directly, but normal when patient is asked to flex opposite hip at same time
• Shows that weakness is functional, not disease related

Question 4

Investigations for functional symptoms in neurology?

Answer 4

• MRI brain scan, can show that symptoms are due to functional changes in the brain rather than psychological

Question 5

Management of functional symptoms in neurology?

Answer 5

• Referral to psychiatry / physical rehab

- Antidepressants / anxiety meds