Semiology and Mechanisms of Near-Death Experiences

Near-death experiences (NDEs) are conscious perceptual experiences involving self-related emotional, spiritual, and mystical feelings that can occur in close encounters with death or in non-life-threatening situations. Their origin remains unknown. Recent prospective studies confirm that NDEs represent a spectrum of highly distinctive memories associated with negative or positive emotions, influenced by the causal event, though the temporal sequence of images varies. Some drugs, particularly ketamine, can produce experiences similar or identical to NDEs. New models extend previous neural network theories and incorporate evolutionary and quantum aspects. While NDEs' factual existence is no longer doubted and their semiology is well-described, a comprehensive pathophysiological model is still lacking.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Purpose of reviewNear-death experiences (NDEs) are conscious perceptual experiences, including self-related emotional, spiritual, and mystical experiences, occurring in close encounters with death or in non-life-threatening situations. The origin of NDEs remains unknown. Here, we review recent advances in the understanding of NDE semiology and pathophysiology.Recent findingsRecent prospective studies confirm that NDEs reflect a spectrum of highly distinctive memories which are associated with negative or positive emotions and can be influenced by the nature of the causal event, but the temporal sequence with which these images unfold is variable. Some drugs, notably ketamine, may lead to experiences that are similar or even identical to NDEs. New models extend previous neural network theories and include aspects of evolutionary and quantum theories. Although the factual existence of NDEs is no longer doubted and the semiology well-described, a pathophysiological model that includes all aspects of NDEs is still lacking.