Status of glucocorticoid alterations in post-traumatic stress disorder

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185 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
PublisherBlackwell Publishing Inc.
Pages56-69
Number of pages14
ISBN (Print)9781573317481
DOIs
StatePublished - 2009

Publication series

NameAnnals of the New York Academy of Sciences
Volume1179
ISSN (Print)0077-8923
ISSN (Electronic)1749-6632

Keywords

  • Acth
  • Cortisol
  • Depression
  • Dexamethasone
  • Glucocorticoid receptors

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