Recognising and managing functional neurological disorder in the acute healthcare setting.

Abstract

Functional neurological disorder (FND) is a complex and heterogenous condition characterised by abnormal neurological symptoms that are linked to structural and functional alterations in widely distributed brain networks. For many patients with FND, the emergency department (ED) is the first point of contact with the healthcare system. This review seeks to provide up-to-date FND diagnostic criteria to ED providers, with a focus on common FND subtypes. Furthermore, we summarise the appropriate management course for these patients. Proper recognition and management of FND at the time of initial presentation in the acute care setting has the potential to improve patient prognosis and reduce overall costs to the healthcare system.