FNDS Newsletter - July 2023

The American Academy of Neurology (AAN) annual meeting held at the Boston Convention Center provided an enriching platform for experts in the field of Functional Neurological Disorders (FND) to share their insights, research, and advancements. The conference showcased a comprehensive range of sessions that covered various aspects of FND, including diagnosis, treatment, understanding vulnerable populations, and debunking myths. Here is an overview of the noteworthy sessions and presentations that took place during the event.

On Saturday, April 22nd, the Hot Topics Plenary Session included a talk on Biological Vulnerability Factors in FND led by Selma Aybek, MD, FAAN. Her presentation explored the underlying biological mechanisms and vulnerabilities associated with FND, shedding light on potential markers and risk factors that contribute to the development of functional symptoms. Dr. Aybek's session provided valuable insights into the intricate interplay between neurobiology and the manifestation of FND, paving the way for future research in the field.

Continuing the insightful discussions, on Sunday, April 23rd, three distinguished physicians, Dr. Mark Hallett, Dr. David Perez, and Dr. Alberto Espay, took the stage to discuss the treatment and management of FND. Dr. Espay's focus was on the diagnosis of FND, highlighting the importance of recognizing distinct clinical features and distinguishing them from other neurological disorders. Dr. Hallett's expertise centered around laboratory support for diagnosis, emphasizing the significance of advanced techniques and neurophysiological investigations. Dr. Perez's presentation emphasized the multidisciplinary approach required for effective FND management, highlighting treatment strategies such as physical therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and medication management.

On Monday, April 24th, Dr. Z Paige L'Erario presented a session on FND in LGBTQI individuals. This session shed light on the unique challenges faced by this community and their potential impact on the presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of FND. Dr. L'Erario's discussion emphasized the need for culturally competent care and inclusivity in FND research and practice, providing valuable insights for healthcare providers.

The conference also featured a range of poster presentations dedicated to FND. Two notable posters included "A Scoping Review of Functional Neurological Disorder in Sexual and Gender Minority People" by Valeria Roldan, which provided a comprehensive analysis of the challenges faced by sexual and gender minority individuals with FND, and "A Cross-Sectional Evaluation of Health Resource Use in Patients with Functional Neurological Disorders Referred to a Tertiary Neuroscience Centre " by Dr. Brian William O'Mahony, which assessed healthcare resource utilization patterns among FND patients. These posters contributed to the growing body of research and provided valuable insights into improving patient care and resource allocation.

In addition to these sessions, the conference hosted a lecture on Wednesday, April 26th, titled "Myths, Truths, and Misunderstandings of FND Beyond Seizures." This informative session aimed to debunk misconceptions surrounding FND and enhance understanding of the condition beyond seizure-related manifestations. Dr. Mark Hallett, Dr. Curt LaFrance, and Dr. Selim Benbadis provided an insightful discussion.

The AAN annual meeting served as a comprehensive platform for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and advancement in the field of FND. The discussions, presentations, and poster sessions highlighted the multidimensional nature of FND and emphasized the importance of considering various factors in diagnosis, treatment, and care. The insights gained from this event will shape future research, clinical practice, and public understanding of FND, ultimately improving the lives of individuals affected by this complex disorder.

 

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