Delayed detection of congenital hearing loss.

Abstract

Clinically pseudo-seizures may be mistaken for genuine fits as they are usually tonic-clonic in appearance, although occasionally manifesting as complex partial seizures. Certain features are helpful in differentiation, including gaze aversion, resistance to passive limb movement or eye opening, prevention of the hand falling on to the face, and induction by suggestion.3 Previously normal electroencephalograms, particularly during an attack, or normal serum prolactin concentrations during a pseudo-seizure can be useful in supporting the diagnosis.4 Status epilepticus is a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment with anticonvulsants. Patients with pseudo-status epilepticus, however, are more at risk from medical treatment than from their condition, and early recognition of pseudoseizures would avoid iatrogenic complications. This might be facilitated by rapid access to a register of patients with pseudo-seizures. The register should be held in local accident and emergency departments in the region as these patients may attend many hospitals.