Psychophysiological responses in the diagnosis of posttraumatic stress disorder in Vietnam veterans

Article Abstract:

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may result when a person experiences or witnesses a severe trauma such as a life-threatening event or a natural disaster. Sufferers often report persistent distressing recollections of the event and avoid situations reminiscent of the event. Some Vietnam veterans have exhibited symptoms of PTSD. To obtain a better understanding of this disorder, assessment was made of PTSD-associated symptoms psychophysiological symptoms (physiological factors such as blood pressure that may be affected by psychological factors such as anxiety level). Two hundred male Vietnam veterans were divided into two groups. Group one consisted of 104 men, and group two consisted of the remaining 96; the second group was used to cross-validate the results of the first group. Each subject was presented with sounds consisting of symphonic music followed by a period of silence, which was then followed by combat sounds. Heart rate was measured during the trials, as was blood pressure changes, and brain activity. Used alone, the heart-rate-change data were correlated with a diagnosis of PTSD in 75 percent of the subjects. When blood pressure data was considered with heart rate data, the correlation with diagnosis of PTSD increased to 80 percent. Cross validation of these results provided correct diagnosis for 83 percent. Changes in brain activity were not significantly correlated with diagnosis. This suggests that physiological data can be used in conjunction with history-taking to make a more positive diagnosis of PTSD, or possibly to discriminate patients who are more severely affected than psychological evaluation alone can detect. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Physiological aspects, Stress (Psychology)

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Multiple diagnosis in posttraumatic stress disorder; the role of war stressors

Article Abstract:

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD, a malaise afflicting mainly combat veterans) in Vietnam veterans is associated with particular sources of war stress. Veterans with this condition often have other mental illnesses. The prediction of such additional problems from specific war stressors is discussed. PTSD with a panic disorder is better predicted than other mental problems by certain war stressors. High-risk military assignments and exposure to grotesque deaths are often the most important stressors in causing certain mental illnesses. The implications for the categorization of PTSD among psychiatric disorders are discussed.

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Validity and reliability of the DSM-III criteria for posttraumatic stress disorder; experience with a structured interview

Article Abstract:

Standard operational criteria for diagnosing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD, a malaise afflicting mainly combat veterans) were devised for use in patient interviews. The criteria produced consistent results when repeated and used by different psychiatrists. The criteria were shown to successfully diagnose PTSD. They also had appropriate correlations with self-rated degree of PTSD and to combat exposure. Results of the criteria correlated with severity of depression and anxiety symptoms.

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