Paroxysmal non-epileptic events vs epilepsy – what we know and where we are in medicine?

Abstract

Introduction and aim. Paroxysmal non-epileptic events (PNEEs) are neurological conditions that include behavioral changes or disturbances of consciousness. The aim of the article is to compare individual paroxysmal non-epileptic events disorders, to indicate differences in their clinical picture and to discuss their differential diagnosis. Material and methods. A review of the most common non-epileptic paroxysmal events is presented based on the available literature of PubMed and Google Scholar databases from 2000 to 2023. Analysis of the literature. Depending on the age of the child, the nature and type of seizures are variable. Unfortunately, epilepsy is currently overdiagnosed, which results in the inclusion of antiepileptic drugs without the need to use them. This may be related to the immaturity of the central nervous system, malfunctioning of other organs or have a psychogenic background. In most cases, they do not require pharmacological treatment. Conclusion. Paroxysmal non-epileptic events, due to the diverse and uncharacteristic clinical picture, pose a major diagnostic challenge. Because of the current overdiagnosis of epilepsy they should always bear in mind differential diagnosis. This is important because of the differences in the treatment of these disorders.