Posttraumatic stress disorder with secondary psychotic features: neurobiological findings

Prog Brain Res. 2008:167:299-302. doi: 10.1016/S0079-6123(07)67027-7.

Abstract

The neurobiological knowledge on the potentially new diagnostic entity "posttraumatic stress disorder with secondary psychotic features" (PTSD-SP) is reviewed. Studies published between 1980 and 2006 were traced focussing on adult patients suffering from this "syndrome". Studies on cortisol, corticotrophin releasing hormone, dopamine beta-hydroxylase, smooth pursuit eye movements and psychopharmacology are described and potential pathophysiological mechanisms briefly discussed. More research is needed to validate the nosological status of PTSD-SP in order to promote neurobiological research and adequate therapeutic interventions.

Publication types

  • Meta-Analysis
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers
  • Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone / blood
  • Dopamine beta-Hydroxylase / blood
  • Humans
  • Hydrocortisone / blood
  • Psychotic Disorders / complications*
  • Psychotic Disorders / physiopathology
  • Psychotic Disorders / psychology*
  • Pursuit, Smooth / physiology
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / complications*
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / physiopathology
  • Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / psychology*

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone
  • Dopamine beta-Hydroxylase
  • Hydrocortisone