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Neuroimaging studies in post-traumatic stress disorder
1Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory Center for Positron Emission Tomography, Emory University School of Medicine, 1364 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA. jdbremn@emory.edu
Current Psychiatry Reports
|July 20, 2002
Summary
Neuroimaging studies reveal altered brain function and structure in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Key areas like the medial prefrontal cortex and hippocampus show dysfunction, offering insights into PTSD neural circuits.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) research has advanced significantly due to neuroimaging.
- Animal studies suggest stress impacts brain regions implicated in PTSD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review neuroimaging findings on the neural circuitry of PTSD.
- To identify consistent patterns of brain dysfunction associated with PTSD.
Main Methods:
- Review of neuroimaging studies in humans with PTSD.
- Analysis of findings related to medial prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, and amygdala function and structure.
Main Results:
- Consistent findings of decreased medial prefrontal cortex function in PTSD.
- Observed alterations include decreased inferior frontal gyrus and hippocampal function.
- Increased posterior cingulate and, in some cases, amygdala function are also noted.
- Structural changes, such as reduced hippocampal volume, are evident in PTSD.
Conclusions:
- Neuroimaging studies are mapping the neural circuitry of PTSD.
- These findings have potential implications for future PTSD diagnosis and treatment strategies.