An update of panic disorders. Somatization, biological markers and treatment outcome

Psychiatric underdiagnosis of panic disorders is due to its particular somatization profiles. Cardial somatization is very common, but focal neurological symptoms and a pattern of gastro-intestinal complaints deserve more attention. Recent research into biological data is discussed, and the importance of psychological issues--childhood separation or sexual victimisation--and cognitive factors is stressed. Breaking up outcome data in degree of remission and relapse rate for an exact judgment of different treatment strategies is needed.