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Semin Neurol 2021; 41(06): 667-672
DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1726359
Review Article

Approach to Loss of Consciousness: Distinguishing Epileptic Seizures, Psychogenic Nonepileptic Seizures, and Syncope

Ima Ebong 
1   Department of Neurology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
,
Zahra Haghighat
1   Department of Neurology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
,
Meriem Bensalem-Owen
1   Department of Neurology, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
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Abstract

Transient loss of consciousness (TLOC) is a common emergent neurological issue, which can be attributed to syncope, epileptic seizures, and psychogenic nonepileptic seizures. The purpose of this article is to outline an approach to diagnosing the most common etiologies of TLOC by focusing on the importance of the history and physical examination, as well as targeted diagnostic tests.

Keywords

transient loss of consciousness - loss of consciousness - seizures - syncope - psychogenic nonepileptic seizures


Publication History

Article published online:
26 November 2021

© 2021. Thieme. All rights reserved.

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