People with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures : a South African perspective
Date
2015-07
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
AOSIS Publishing
Abstract
Background: Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) is a disabling disorder which has a negative effect on the quality of life of individuals with PNES. A clear understanding of the disorder is necessary, however, to date, research about PNES in South Africa is limited.
Objectives: The aims of this study were to explore the demographic variables of individuals with PNES in South Africa, to review the available body of research on PNES, and to compare it with our results.
Method: Twenty-two people with PNES, with confirmed video EEG, were recruited by means
of convenience sampling from two hospitals. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the
demographic variables of the participants.
Results: Internationally comparable results revealed misdiagnoses and low treatment delivery
amongst a primarily female population.
Conclusion: This study provided greater insight into individuals with PNES in South Africa, highlighting the need for more information, support, effective treatment and accurate diagnosis of PNES.
Description
CITATION: Pretorius, C. & Cronje, G. 2015. People with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures : a South African perspective. African Journal of Disability, 4(1):1-7, doi:10.4102/ajod.v4i1.176
The original publication is available at http://www.ajod.org
The original publication is available at http://www.ajod.org
Keywords
Non-epileptic attack disorder -- South Africa, Lactation consultants
Citation
Pretorius, C. & Cronje, G. 2015. People with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures : a South African perspective. African Journal of Disability, 4(1):1-7, doi:10.4102/ajod.v4i1.176