Quantitative Electroencephalography Analysis in Panic Disorder: Exploring the Neurophysiological Significance of High
Chang Hoon Park1, Jun-Young Lee2,3,4, Hee Yeon Jung2,3
1Department of Neuropsychiatry, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
Psychiatry Investigation
|February 12, 2026
Summary
Patients with panic disorder (PD) exhibit heightened high beta brainwave activity, potentially indicating hyperarousal. This elevated high beta activity may serve as a future biomarker for panic disorder.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Quantitative Electroencephalography (QEEG)
Background:
- Panic disorder (PD) is a debilitating condition characterized by recurrent panic attacks.
- Understanding the neurophysiological underpinnings of PD is crucial for developing effective treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the neurophysiological characteristics of panic disorder (PD) using quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG).
- To specifically analyze high beta activity in individuals with PD compared to healthy controls (HC).
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of resting-state QEEG data from 58 PD patients and 23 HC.
- Spectral power analysis across delta, theta, alpha, beta, and high beta frequency bands.
- Group differences assessed using generalized estimating equations and correlation analyses with clinical symptoms.
Main Results:
- PD patients demonstrated significantly higher high beta power across all brain regions compared to HC.
- Elevated beta power was observed in the frontal region, and increased delta power was noted overall in PD patients.
- A positive correlation was found between frontal high beta power and panic disorder severity.
Conclusions:
- Increased high beta, beta, and delta activity in PD suggest a neurophysiological imbalance.
- Elevated high beta power may signify hyperarousal and excessive cognitive control in PD.
- High beta activity shows potential as a future biomarker for panic disorder.
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