RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Pathological laughter and crying in neurological disorders: recognition and treatment JF Practical Neurology JO Pract Neurol FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd SP 486 OP 490 DO 10.1136/pn-2021-003301 VO 22 IS 6 A1 Emma Husbands A1 Kevin Talbot YR 2022 UL http://pn.bmj.com/content/22/6/486.abstract AB Pathological laughter and crying is a disabling symptom complex associated with damage to various central nervous system pathways that control the reflex motor component of emotional expression. Many underlying conditions—including neurodegenerative diseases, CNS inflammation, vascular lesions and traumatic brain injury—can be associated with disinhibition of emotional reflex control. This suggests a disruption of anatomical and functional networks, rather than any specific unifying pathological process. There is a wide differential diagnosis, including depression, dementia and other forms of behavioural disturbance. Diagnostic criteria and rating scales can help with clinical assessments and facilitate clinical trials. There is now good-quality evidence for a combination of dextromethorphan and quinidine, with weaker evidence for tricyclic and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressants. Pathological laughter and crying is disabling and underdiagnosed but potentially treatable, and its wider recognition is important.No data are available.