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Review
. 2019 Feb 12;19(3):12.
doi: 10.1007/s11910-019-0926-y.

Neuroimaging in Functional Movement Disorders

Jacob J Roelofs  1   2 , Tiago Teodoro  2   3 , Mark J Edwards  4   5
Affiliations
Review

Neuroimaging in Functional Movement Disorders

Jacob J Roelofs et al. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep. .

Abstract

Purpose of review: Functional movement disorders are common and disabling causes of abnormal movement control. Here, we review the current state of the evidence on the use of neuroimaging in Functional movement disorders, particularly its role in helping to unravel the pathophysiology of this enigmatic condition.

Recent findings: In recent years, there has been a shift in thinking about functional movement disorder, away from a focus on high-level psychological precipitants as in Freudian conversion theories, or even an implicit belief they are 'put-on' for secondary gain. New research has emphasised novel neurobiological models incorporating emotional processing, self-representation and agency. Neuroimaging has provided new insights into functional movement disorders, supporting emerging neurobiological theories implicating dysfunctional emotional processing, self-image and sense of agency. Recent studies have also found subtle structural brain changes in patients with functional disorders, arguing against a strict functional/structural dichotomy.

Keywords: Conversion disorder; Functional movement disorders; Imaging; MRI; Psychogenic; fMRI.

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Conflict of interest statement

Conflict of Interest

Mark J. Edwards is a medical adviser to two patient charities who support people with functional neurological disorders: FNDHope and FNDAction. Tiago Teodoro and Jacob Roelofs each declare no potential conflicts of interest.

Human and Animal Rights and Informed Consent

This article does not contain any studies with human or animal subjects performed by any of the authors.

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