Predictors and outcome in panic disorder: a 2-year prospective follow-up study

53 patients presenting at an outpatient unit for anxiety disorders were included in the present prospective 2-year follow-up study. Sociodemographic, illness history, index rating, and 2-year follow-up data were evaluated. A multiple stepwise regression analysis was carried out in order to find predictors of the 2-year outcome. Results indicate that panic patients without episode at follow-up show less symptoms and a better psychosocial functioning than patients with episode at follow-up. Comorbid generalized anxiety disorder, duration of illness, and phobic avoidance behavior were found to be the best predictors of outcome. Conclusively, the present study confirms the most important predictors in patients with panic disorder.