Dissociative or Epileptic Seizures: A Diagnostic Dilemma

Abstract

Dissociative Neurological Symptom Disorder (DNSS) often presents with symptoms mimicking epileptic seizures, termed Dissociative Seizures or Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures (PNES). This case report details a 34-year-old male who experienced jerky movements followed by unconsciousness. He had been treated for epilepsy for the past two years. Admission for his detailed history and examination raised the suspicion of Dissociative Neurological Symptom Disorder in the background of Recurrent Depressive Disorder. He was treated on the lines of Recurrent Depressive Disorder with Dissociative Neurological Symptom Disorder, resulting in notable clinical improvement in his symptoms. This case underscores the need for accurate differentiation between epileptic and dissociative seizures to avoid unnecessary treatments and improve the patient’s prognosis. Effective liaison between neurologists and psychiatrists is the key to accurate diagnosis and management of such cases.