Neurofeedback treatment of pseudoseizure disorder

Background: Previous research has shown that the suppression of theta wave activity and the enhancement of sensorimotor rhythm (SMR) through electroencephalographic (EEG) biofeedback is an effective treatment for epilepsy. The current research reports the results of EEG biofeedback treatment for patients presenting with seizure behaviors in the absence of eliptiform EEG activity. Methods: In addition to psychotherapy, 3 patients, 2 women and 1 man, were trained, using EEG feedback once per week, to reduce the ratio of theta band to SMR band EEG amplitudes. Results: The results showed that reductions in seizure activity were related to reductions in the theta–SMR ratio. Conclusions: These findings support the view that theta–SMR feedback training, in conjunction with psychotherapy, is an effective adjunctive treatment for pseudoseizure disorder.