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When expressing emotions is a matter of chance, consider pseudobulbar affect (PBA)

If you have a neurologic patient who cries or laughs involuntarily, consider pseudobulbar affect (PBA). Pseudobulbar affect (PBA) occurs in approximately 10% to 20% of patients with certain neurologic diseases or injuries, including multiple sclerosis (MS), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), stroke, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and others.²

Pseudobulbar affect (PBA) is sometimes known as emotional lability, pathological crying and laughing, and emotional incontinence.^1-3

View more about PBA

PBA Diagnosis

Review proposed diagnostic criteria, access a validated diagnostic tool for pseudobulbar affect (PBA), and understand how pseudobulbar affect (PBA) is different from depression. Go to PBA Diagnosis

Etiology Video

Pseudobulbar affect (PBA) is believed to be caused by lesions in the brain that disrupt voluntary control of emotional expression. This video explores the potential causes of pseudobulbar affect (PBA) in a computer-animated journey along key signaling pathways in the brain. Go to Etiology Video

Links and Downloads

For peer-reviewed articles, white papers, external resources, presentations, and videos. Also, a guide to discussing pseudobulbar affect (PBA) with patients.