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Comorbidity of depression and panic disorder
1New York State Psychiatric Institute, N.Y. 10032, USA.
The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Panic disorder and depression frequently co-occur, increasing suicide risk. However, recent findings suggest comorbid panic disorder and depression may not negatively impact treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Panic disorder and major depression are common, chronic mental health conditions.
- High rates of comorbidity exist between panic disorder and depression.
- Anxiety symptoms in depression do not always indicate a comorbid anxiety disorder.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the prognostic implications of panic disorder and depression comorbidity.
- To investigate shared biological pathways between panic disorder and depression.
- To assess treatment outcomes for patients with comorbid panic disorder and depression.
Main Methods:
- Epidemiologic analysis of comorbidity rates.
- Review of neurobiological disturbances (e.g., HPA axis, serotonergic function).
- Evaluation of treatment outcomes from existing literature.
Main Results:
- Comorbidity increases suicide attempt risk in panic disorder patients.
- Shared dysregulation in hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and neurotransmission observed.
- Recent data indicate similar treatment outcomes for comorbid versus uncomplicated panic disorder.
Conclusions:
- Panic disorder and depression share biological underpinnings and treatment approaches.
- While comorbidity elevates suicide risk, treatment prognosis may be more favorable than previously thought.