Work

Is It Psychogenic Non‐Epileptic Event, Sleep Related Rhythmical Movement Disorder or Hypermotor Seizure?

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Distinguishing non-epileptic events from epileptic seizures remains a clinical challenge, particularly when occurring exclusively during sleep. Sleep-related rhythmical movement disorder (SRRMD) is a benign condition typically seen in early childhood, characterised by stereotyped, rhythmical repetitive movements involving large muscle groups, predominantly during Stage II of non-REM sleep. These movements can closely mimic features of sleep parasomnias, hypermotor seizures or psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES), complicating the diagnostic approach. We present a case of an adolescent female with comorbid SRRMD and PNES and a clinical approach to distinguish between them.

Source: Journal of Sleep Research

DOI: 10.1111/jsr.70302

Authors: Akshaya Rathin Sivaji, Sanah Virdah Parvez, Jennifer Waldron, Emily A. Langan, Sally Ibrahim, Jun Park

Institutions: University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Rainbow Babies & Children's Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Sleep and related disorders

Subfield: Experimental and Cognitive Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: bronze

OpenAlex ID: W7128504697