Photosensitivity in panic disorder

BACKGROUND: The objective of this study is to evaluate abnormal light-related behavior in patients with panic disorder (PD). METHODS: We administered the Photosensitivity Assessment Questionnaire to 30 subjects with PD and to 40 healthy subjects. The Photosensitivity Assessment Questionnaire is a self-report questionnaire that evaluates two dimensions of photosensitivity: photophilia and photophobia. RESULTS: Compared to healthy controls, PD subjects reported significantly higher scores on the photophobia (P<.003) and significantly lower scores on the photophilia (P<.001) questions. CONCLUSIONS: Subjects with PD indicated that they tolerate and seek light to a significantly lower degree than normal controls.