Posttraumatic stress disorder in burn populations: a critical review of the literature

This review of the literature examines studies concerning posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in burn populations. Retrospective, cross-sectional, and prospective research and case studies are critiqued. Although the data are equivocal, several trends are clearly emerging. Though severity of burn and degree of disfigurement did not consistently predict PTSD, subjective variables were better predictors. There was a clear trend for patients who had no symptoms of PTSD while hospitalized to have PTSD develop after discharge. Finally, prevalence rates of PTSD vary greatly based on time of screening. Methodological problems with studies were related to sampling and follow-up; suggestions for future research are provided.