Daijiworld Media Network – Lucknow

Lucknow, Jul 31: Functional seizures in children, which are often mistaken for epilepsy, may be linked to the way the brain processes stress and emotions, according to a new study by researchers from the Centre of Bio-Medical Research (CBMR) and King George's Medical University (KGMU).

The study found subtle changes in brain regions responsible for regulating emotions, attention, body awareness and movement, offering insights into why some children continue to experience seizure-like episodes despite normal MRI and EEG reports.

Published in the international journal Epilepsia, the research could help address misconceptions that children experiencing functional seizures are pretending or seeking attention.

The study analysed 150 adolescents, including 75 children diagnosed with functional (dissociative) seizures and 75 healthy children.

Using advanced analysis of high-resolution 3-Tesla MRI scans, researchers identified differences in brain regions involved in emotional regulation, stress response, attention and movement control.

The team also used specialised brain-mapping techniques to study the thickness, folds and grooves of the brain's surface, along with the communication patterns between different brain regions. These methods go beyond routine MRI scans, which primarily detect visible abnormalities such as tumours or injuries.

Researchers found changes in areas associated with processing emotions, interpreting body signals and responding to stress.

"Parents often feel confused when MRI and EEG reports are normal, but their child continues to have seizure-like attacks. Our findings show measurable differences in brain networks involved in processing stress and emotions. The attacks are real and should never be dismissed as intentional or attention-seeking," said Dr Uttam Kumar, Additional Professor at CBMR, who led the neuroimaging research.

Prof Amit Arya from the Department of Neurology at KGMU, a co-author of the study, said functional seizures closely resemble epilepsy but require a different treatment approach.

"Recognising the condition early can help families receive the right neurological, psychological and psychiatric care while avoiding unnecessary delays in treatment," he said.

The researchers said the findings highlight the importance of early diagnosis and a comprehensive approach involving neurological and psychological support for children with functional seizures.