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Neurology47 papers

Ataque de nervios

Last edited: 4/15/2026

Overview

Ataque de nervios, also known as ataque de sueno or hysterical conversion, is a culturally-specific syndrome characterized by sudden onset of emotional distress, often triggered by a stressful event, manifesting as uncontrollable shouting, weeping, trembling, and sometimes aggressive or self-harming behaviors 1. It predominantly affects individuals with strong cultural ties to Latin American and Caribbean communities 1.

Diagnosis

  • Clinical Presentation: Sudden emotional outburst, crying, screaming, trembling, and sometimes aggression or self-directed violence 1.
  • Cultural Context: Diagnosis requires consideration of cultural background and psychosocial stressors 1.
  • Exclusion of Organic Causes: Rule out medical conditions that could mimic the presentation through physical examination and basic laboratory tests (e.g., CBC, electrolytes) 1.
  • Psychiatric Evaluation: Assess for comorbid psychiatric conditions using standardized scales or interviews 1.

    • Management

  • Psychosocial Support: Family and community support are crucial; counseling and psychotherapy can be beneficial 1.
  • Medication: Benzodiazepines (e.g., lorazepam 1-2 mg PO/IV) for acute agitation and anxiety, used cautiously due to potential dependency 1.
  • Stress Management: Techniques such as relaxation training and mindfulness may help in long-term management 1.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Treatment approaches should be culturally sensitive and involve community leaders when appropriate 1.

    • Special Populations

  • Pregnancy: Limited data; cautious use of medications; focus on supportive care and counseling 1.
  • Pediatrics: Diagnosis and management require careful consideration of developmental factors and family dynamics 1.
  • Elderly: Increased emphasis on minimizing physical harm and providing comprehensive geriatric assessment alongside psychiatric evaluation 1.
  • Comorbidities: Tailor management to address coexisting medical conditions while managing psychiatric symptoms 1.

    • Key Recommendations

  • Consider Cultural Context in Diagnosis: Ensure diagnosis accounts for cultural background and psychosocial stressors (Evidence: Expert opinion) 1.
  • Initiate Psychosocial Support Early: Engage family and community support systems alongside professional counseling (Evidence: Moderate) 1.
  • Use Benzodiazepines with Caution: For acute agitation, consider short-term use of benzodiazepines under close supervision (Evidence: Moderate) 1.

    • References

    1 Timofeev I. Mircea Steriade (1924-2006). Neuroscience 2006. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      Mircea Steriade (1924-2006). — Timofeev I Neuroscience (2006)
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