Key result
PTSD was characterized by attenuated parasympathetic and elevated sympathetic control compared to panic disorder and healthy controls, with group-comparison effect sizes in the order of 1.0.
Why the study?
What are the differences in autonomic and respiratory characteristics between patients with PTSD, panic disorder, and healthy controls?
Cross-Sectional (n=81)
What are the differences in autonomic and respiratory characteristics between patients with PTSD, panic disorder, and healthy controls?
Effect estimate: Effect sizes ~1.0
PTSD and panic disorder exhibit distinct autonomic and respiratory psychophysiological profiles, with PTSD characterized by high sympathetic and low parasympathetic tone, and PD by hypocapnia.
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May aid differential diagnosis of PTSD versus panic disorder; hypothesis-generating for prospective autonomic-targeted trials.
Blechert et al. (2007) conducted a cross-sectional in Posttraumatic stress disorder and panic disorder (n=81). Posttraumatic stress disorder and panic disorder vs. Healthy controls was evaluated on Electrodermal, cardiovascular, and respiratory psychophysiology at baseline and during threat of shock (Effect sizes ~1.0). PTSD was characterized by attenuated parasympathetic and elevated sympathetic control compared to panic disorder and healthy controls, with group-comparison effect sizes in the order of 1.0.
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