Panic disorders

Question 1

Definition of a panic disorder

Answer 1

Recurrent episodic severe panic attacks which are unpredictable and not restricted to any specific situation or circumstance

Question 2

ICD10 criteria for panic disorder

Answer 2

Recurrent panic attacks not associated with a specific situation or left threatening situation
Discrete episodes of feeling of imminent catastrophe
Episodes start abruptly, crescendo and are associated with at least 1 symptom of autonomic arousal

Question 3

Step 1 management of panic disorders

Answer 3

Diagnose

Identify any comorbidities e.g depression and substance misuse

Question 4

Step 2 management of panic disorders

Answer 4

Offer one of:
CBT
Self help strategies
SSRIs

Question 5

Step 3 management of panic disorders

Answer 5

Reassess and offer alternative treatment if initial therapy has failed

Question 6

Step 4 management of panic disorders

Answer 6

Refer if no improvement with 2 interventions

Question 7

Step 5 management of panic disorders

Answer 7

Reassess in secondary care