Which seizures are psychogenic or pseudo-seizures?

• A. Generalized seizures
• B. Focal seizures
• C. Nonepileptic seizures
• D. Status epilepticus

Answer: (C)

Understanding which events are psychogenic or pseudo-seizures hinges on recognizing that they mimic seizures but are not caused by epileptic brain activity. Nonepileptic seizures, also called psychogenic nonepileptic seizures, are the ones that fit this description: they resemble seizures in appearance and duration but EEG monitoring does not show the abnormal electrical discharges that define true epileptic seizures. They’re often linked to psychological factors such as stress or trauma and are managed differently from epilepsy, focusing on psychological and rehabilitative approaches rather than antiepileptic drugs. In contrast, generalized and focal seizures are produced by actual epileptic activity in the brain, and status epilepticus is a prolonged or recurrent epileptic event that requires urgent medical treatment.