Panic disorder

Question 1

Point prevalence

Answer 1

0.9%

Question 2

Panic attacks

Answer 2

lifetime prevalence of 28%

Question 3

Lifetime prevalence of PD

Answer 3

4.7%

Question 4

Mortality

Answer 4

-all cause mortality increased by 1.9 x in those with panic disorder

Question 5

Mean age of onset of panic attacks

Answer 5

22

Question 6

Panic disorder ICD10

Answer 6

• recurrent, unpredictable panic attacks with sudden palpitations, chest pain, choking sensations, dizziness and feelings of unreality, often with associated fear of dying, losing control or going mad
• no requirement for symptoms to last 1 month or longer

Question 7

Heritability

Answer 7

30-40%

Question 8

Neuroimaging

Answer 8

amygdala, orbitofrontal cortex and hypothalamus are implicated

Question 9

Treatment

Answer 9

• CBT psychotherapy
• self help
• SSRIs are first line
• if no improvement after 12 weeks of SSRIs, imipramine or clomipramine should be considered
• do not use BENZOS