The Inmate Who Continues to Seize: Delayed Diagnosis of Zolpidem Withdrawal Due to Functional Mimics

Functional neurological disorder (FND) is a constellation of common neurological symptoms without exact organic pathophysiology. The disease arises from aberrant neural computation, and its diagnosis is made upon positive clinical features. FND has emerged as a challenge to healthcare, as clinicians often have limited instructions in assessing it during their career, mainly when there are preexisting organic entities. Here we discuss an inmate whose diagnosis of zolpidem withdrawal seizure is delayed due to co-existing functional mimics and eventually led to an unfavorable outcome. We also review and summarize the current consensus on FND diagnosis and management. Together this report highlights the importance of careful investigation in atypical clinical presentation, with the intent to improve care for both organic and functional neurological patients.