Serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels in conversion disorder: Comparative study with depression.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychiatry

Background:

• Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is crucial for neuronal survival, growth, and function.
• Altered BDNF levels are implicated in various psychiatric disorders, including major depressive disorder (MDD).
• Conversion disorder (CD) is a condition where psychological distress manifests as neurological symptoms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare serum BDNF levels in patients with MDD and CD.
• To investigate the potential role of BDNF in the pathophysiology of these disorders.

Main Methods:

• Serum BDNF levels were measured in three groups: patients with CD (n=15), patients with MDD (n=24), and healthy controls (n=26).
• Participants were assessed for comorbid psychiatric diagnoses and treatments.

Main Results:

• Healthy controls exhibited significantly higher serum BDNF levels (31.4 +/- 8.8 ng/mL) compared to both the MDD group (21.2 +/- 11.3 ng/mL) and the CD group (24.3 +/- 9.0 ng/mL).
• The difference between MDD and CD groups was not statistically significant, but both were lower than controls (P = 0.008).

Conclusions:

• Serum BDNF levels are reduced in patients with MDD and CD compared to healthy individuals.
• BDNF may play a comparable role in the underlying pathophysiology of both major depressive disorder and conversion disorder.