Biochemical, physical and psychological findings in patients suffering from cardiac neurosis

In 10 patients suffering from cardiac neurosis changes in plasma norepinephrine (NE) and epinephrine (E) were studied by an upright bicycle exercise and during psychological stress. Psychometric tests were also performed. 6 healthy subjects served as a control group. At exercise, no relevant differences in blood pressure and heart rate regulation between patients and controls were present. The NE and E increase was normal and similar in both groups. During psychological stress an equal plasma NE increase was seen in both groups. During recovery, however, a sustained release of NE was present in patients. It is concluded that patients with cardiac neurosis respond to psychological stress by an inappropriate sustained activation of the sympathetic nervous system.