Status of glucocorticoid alterations in post-traumatic stress disorder

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344 Scopus citations

Abstract

The current status of glucocorticoid alterations in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) will be described in this chapter. Emphasis will be placed on data that suggest that at least some glucocorticoid-related observations in PTSD reflect pretraumatic glucocorticoid status. Recent observations have provided some evidence that pretraumatic glucocorticoid alterations may arise from genetic, epigenetic, and possibly other environmental influences that serve to increase the likelihood of developing PTSD following trauma exposure, as well as modulate attendant biological alterations associated with its pathophysiology. Current studies in the field of PTSD employ glucocorticoid challenge strategies to delineate effects of exogenously administered glucocorticoids on neuroendocrine, cognitive, and brain function. Results of these studies have provided an important rationale for using glucocorticoid strategies in the treatment of PTSD.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationGlucocorticoids and Mood Clinical Manifestations, Risk Factors, and Molecular Mechanisms
Pages56-69
Number of pages14
Volume1179
DOIs
StatePublished - 2009

Keywords

  • Acth
  • Cortisol
  • Depression
  • Dexamethasone
  • Glucocorticoid receptors

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