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P wave dispersion in patients with hypochondriasis
Murad Atmaca1, Hasan Korkmaz, Sevda Korkmaz
1Department of Psychiatry, Firat University, School of Medicine, Elazig, Turkey. matmaca p@yahoo.com
Neuroscience Letters
|September 4, 2010
Summary
P wave dispersion (Pd), a measure of P wave duration, was significantly longer in hypochondriasis patients compared to healthy controls. This suggests a potential link between P wave dispersion and hypochondriasis, warranting further investigation.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Psychiatry
- Medical Diagnostics
Background:
- P wave dispersion (Pd) is linked to anxiety disorders.
- Hypochondriasis is a condition characterized by anxiety about health.
- Investigating cardiac electrophysiology in hypochondriasis may reveal underlying mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if P wave dispersion differs between individuals with hypochondriasis and healthy controls.
- To explore the relationship between P wave dispersion and anxiety in hypochondriasis.
Main Methods:
- P wave dispersion was measured in 30 hypochondriac patients and 30 age/gender-matched healthy controls.
- Electrocardiographic parameters, including Pmax and Pmin, were assessed.
- Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) and Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HARS) were administered.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in heart rate or left atrium size were observed between groups.
- Patients with hypochondriasis exhibited significantly higher Pmax and Pmin values.
- Corrected P wave dispersion was significantly longer in the hypochondriasis group compared to controls.
Conclusions:
- P wave dispersion may be associated with hypochondriasis.
- The findings suggest a potential electrophysiological marker for hypochondriasis.
- Larger studies are needed to confirm these results and explore treatment effects.
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