1
|
Wang R, Kogler L, Derntl B. Sex differences in cortisol levels in depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Neuroendocrinol 2024; 72:101118. [PMID: 38176541 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2023.101118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Higher prevalence of depression in females might be associated with sex-specific cortisol levels. Evidence exists that cortisol levels differ between healthy females and males, however a sex-specific association in depression has not been systematically assessed. Thus, the current study quantifies the existing literature on different cortisol parameters, i.e., basal cortisol, hair cortisol, cortisol awakening response (CAR), and cortisol stress reactivity comparing depressed females and males as well as sex-specific comparisons with healthy controls. Following an extensive literature research, fifty original articles were included. Depressed females had significantly higher hair cortisol, higher CAR, and lower cortisol stress reactivity compared to depressed males. In comparison with sex-matched controls, female patients had significantly higher evening basal cortisol, higher CAR and lower cortisol stress reactivity, and male patients had significantly higher general, morning and evening basal cortisol. Overall, sex as a fundamental driver of cortisol levels in depression needs to be taken into account.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rui Wang
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Women's Mental Health & Brain Function, Tübingen Center for Mental Health (TüCMH), Medical Faculty, University of Tübingen, Calwerstraße 14, 72076 Tübingen, Germany.
| | - Lydia Kogler
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Women's Mental Health & Brain Function, Tübingen Center for Mental Health (TüCMH), Medical Faculty, University of Tübingen, Calwerstraße 14, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), partner site Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Birgit Derntl
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Women's Mental Health & Brain Function, Tübingen Center for Mental Health (TüCMH), Medical Faculty, University of Tübingen, Calwerstraße 14, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), partner site Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany; LEAD Graduate School and Research Network, University of Tübingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Schumacher S, Laufer S, Fischer S. Fingernail Cortisol: A Biological Signal of Lifetime Major Depressive Disorder. Neuropsychobiology 2023; 82:300-305. [PMID: 37806304 PMCID: PMC10614476 DOI: 10.1159/000531315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Elevated levels of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis hormone cortisol are a frequently replicated finding in major depressive disorder (MDD). However, the current state of research is inconclusive as to whether hypercortisolism represents a trait- or state-like biological signal of MDD. The aim of the present study was to investigate, for the first time, whether cortisol in fingernails, a highly accessible tissue, could distinguish currently remitted individuals with MDD from healthy controls. A further aim was to identify potential confounders of nail cortisol. METHODS A total of N = 100 individuals from the general population were recruited. A structured clinical interview was administered, which resulted in two groups: n = 48 with lifetime MDD and n = 52 healthy controls. All participants answered questions on sociodemographic, lifestyle, and psychosocial characteristics. They also grew their nails for 14 days and cut them for the subsequent determination of cortisol. RESULTS The groups differed in their nail cortisol concentrations, such that the individuals with lifetime MDD had significantly higher concentrations than the healthy controls (p = 0.041). Within the group of individuals with lifetime MDD, the number of experienced episodes was significantly correlated with cortisol (p = 0.011). Income emerged as the only significant confounder of cortisol (p = 0.008). CONCLUSION Elevated fingernail cortisol appears to be a biological signal of MDD, even in the absence of a current major depressive episode. Its high accessibility and robustness render it a promising methodology for remote research as well as for the integration of biomarkers into clinical research and practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Schumacher
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Health, Health and Medical University, Potsdam, Germany
- Department of Psychology, Clinical Psychological Intervention, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sebastian Laufer
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Faculty of Health, Health and Medical University, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Susanne Fischer
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, Institute of Psychology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lu EY, Lee P, Cai S, So WWY, Ng BFL, Jensen MP, Cheung WM, Tsang HWH. Qigong for the treatment of depressive symptoms: Preliminary evidence of neurobiological mechanisms. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2020; 35:1393-1401. [PMID: 32662069 DOI: 10.1002/gps.5380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 06/21/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Qigong has been shown to effectively reduce depressive symptoms in older adults with chronic physical illness. Here, we sought to evaluate the effects of qigong on serotonin, cortisol, and Brain-derived Neurotropic Factors (BDNF) levels and test their roles as potential mediators of the effects of qigong on depressive symptoms. METHODS Thirty older adults with chronic physical illness participated in a randomized clinical trial. They were randomly assigned to a qigong group (n = 14) or a control group for cognitive training of executive function and memory (n = 16). The participants provided blood and saliva samples at baseline and post-intervention. Levels of cortisol were measured from the salvia samples, and serotonin and BDNF were measured from the blood samples. RESULTS Consistent with the study findings presented in the primary outcome paper, a significant Group × Time interaction effect emerged on depressive symptoms, explained by greater reductions in the qigong group than the control group. Qigong participants had significantly larger increases in serotonin and BDNF, and decreases in cortisol levels, compared with control group participants. Moreover, treatment-related changes in cortisol levels (but not serotonin or BDNF) fully mediated the beneficial effects of qigong on depressive symptoms. CONCLUSION The findings provide preliminary evidence that treatment-related changes in cortisol may mediate the benefits of qigong on depressive symptoms. Given the limitation of small sample size of the present study, future studies with larger sample sizes and more extended follow-up assessment are warranted to determine the reliability of these findings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erin Yiqing Lu
- Neuropsychiatric Rehabilitation Laboratory, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Posen Lee
- Department of Occupational Therapy, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Shuhe Cai
- Department of Orthopedic Rehabilitation, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Subsidiary Rehabilitation Hospital, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Wendy Wing Yan So
- Neuropsychiatric Rehabilitation Laboratory, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR
| | | | - Mark P Jensen
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Wai Ming Cheung
- Faculty of Education, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Hector W H Tsang
- Neuropsychiatric Rehabilitation Laboratory, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Rothe N, Steffen J, Penz M, Kirschbaum C, Walther A. Examination of peripheral basal and reactive cortisol levels in major depressive disorder and the burnout syndrome: A systematic review. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 114:232-270. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
|
5
|
Hecht M, Veigure R, Couchman L, S Barker CI, Standing JF, Takkis K, Evard H, Johnston A, Herodes K, Leito I, Kipper K. Utilization of data below the analytical limit of quantitation in pharmacokinetic analysis and modeling: promoting interdisciplinary debate. Bioanalysis 2018; 10:1229-1248. [PMID: 30033744 DOI: 10.4155/bio-2018-0078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Traditionally, bioanalytical laboratories do not report actual concentrations for samples with results below the LOQ (BLQ) in pharmacokinetic studies. BLQ values are outside the method calibration range established during validation and no data are available to support the reliability of these values. However, ignoring BLQ data can contribute to bias and imprecision in model-based pharmacokinetic analyses. From this perspective, routine use of BLQ data would be advantageous. We would like to initiate an interdisciplinary debate on this important topic by summarizing the current concepts and use of BLQ data by regulators, pharmacometricians and bioanalysts. Through introducing the limit of detection and evaluating its variability, BLQ data could be released and utilized appropriately for pharmacokinetic research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Max Hecht
- Chair of Analytical Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, 14a Ravila Street, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
- Analytical Services International, St George's University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK
| | - Rūta Veigure
- Chair of Analytical Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, 14a Ravila Street, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Lewis Couchman
- Analytical Services International, St George's University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK
| | - Charlotte I S Barker
- Paediatric Infectious Diseases Research Group, Institute for Infection & Immunity, St George's University of London, London, SW17 0RE, UK
- Inflammation, Infection & Rheumatology Section, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
- Paediatric Infectious Diseases Unit, St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, SW17 0RE, UK
| | - Joseph F Standing
- Paediatric Infectious Diseases Research Group, Institute for Infection & Immunity, St George's University of London, London, SW17 0RE, UK
- Inflammation, Infection & Rheumatology Section, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Kalev Takkis
- Analytical Services International, St George's University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK
| | - Hanno Evard
- Chair of Analytical Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, 14a Ravila Street, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Atholl Johnston
- Analytical Services International, St George's University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK
- Clinical Pharmacology, Barts & The London School of Medicine & Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, EC1M 6BQ, UK
| | - Koit Herodes
- Chair of Analytical Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, 14a Ravila Street, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Ivo Leito
- Chair of Analytical Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, 14a Ravila Street, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
| | - Karin Kipper
- Chair of Analytical Chemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of Tartu, 14a Ravila Street, 50411 Tartu, Estonia
- Analytical Services International, St George's University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Morris G, Reiche EMV, Murru A, Carvalho AF, Maes M, Berk M, Puri BK. Multiple Immune-Inflammatory and Oxidative and Nitrosative Stress Pathways Explain the Frequent Presence of Depression in Multiple Sclerosis. Mol Neurobiol 2018; 55:6282-6306. [PMID: 29294244 PMCID: PMC6061180 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-017-0843-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2017] [Accepted: 12/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Patients with a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) or major depressive disorder (MDD) share a wide array of biological abnormalities which are increasingly considered to play a contributory role in the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of both illnesses. Shared abnormalities include peripheral inflammation, neuroinflammation, chronic oxidative and nitrosative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, gut dysbiosis, increased intestinal barrier permeability with bacterial translocation into the systemic circulation, neuroendocrine abnormalities and microglial pathology. Patients with MS and MDD also display a wide range of neuroimaging abnormalities and patients with MS who display symptoms of depression present with different neuroimaging profiles compared with MS patients who are depression-free. The precise details of such pathology are markedly different however. The recruitment of activated encephalitogenic Th17 T cells and subsequent bidirectional interaction leading to classically activated microglia is now considered to lie at the core of MS-specific pathology. The presence of activated microglia is common to both illnesses although the pattern of such action throughout the brain appears to be different. Upregulation of miRNAs also appears to be involved in microglial neurotoxicity and indeed T cell pathology in MS but does not appear to play a major role in MDD. It is suggested that the antidepressant lofepramine, and in particular its active metabolite desipramine, may be beneficial not only for depressive symptomatology but also for the neurological symptoms of MS. One clinical trial has been carried out thus far with, in particular, promising MRI findings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gerwyn Morris
- IMPACT Strategic Research Centre, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Edna Maria Vissoci Reiche
- Department of Pathology, Clinical Analysis, and Toxicology, Health Sciences Center, State University of Londrina, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Andrea Murru
- Bipolar Disorders Program, Hospital Clínic Barcelona, IDIBAPS, CIBERSAM, Barcelona, Spain
| | - André F Carvalho
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Translational Psychiatry Research Group, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brazil
| | - Michael Maes
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Michael Berk
- IMPACT Strategic Research Centre, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
- Department of Psychiatry, Medical University Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, State University of Londrina, Londrina, Brazil
- Revitalis, Waalre, The Netherlands
- Orygen - The National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, The Department of Psychiatry and the Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Basant K Puri
- Department of Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Boggero IA, Hostinar CE, Haak EA, Murphy MLM, Segerstrom SC. Psychosocial functioning and the cortisol awakening response: Meta-analysis, P-curve analysis, and evaluation of the evidential value in existing studies. Biol Psychol 2017; 129:207-230. [PMID: 28870447 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2017.08.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2017] [Revised: 07/05/2017] [Accepted: 08/29/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Cortisol levels rise immediately after awakening and peak approximately 30-45min thereafter. Psychosocial functioning influences this cortisol awakening response (CAR), but there is considerable heterogeneity in the literature. The current study used p-curve and meta-analysis on 709 findings from 212 studies to test the evidential value and estimate effect sizes of four sets of findings: those associating worse psychosocial functioning with higher or lower cortisol increase relative to the waking period (CARi) and to the output of the waking period (AUCw). All four sets of findings demonstrated evidential value. Psychosocial predictors explained 1%-3.6% of variance in CARi and AUCw responses. Based on these effect sizes, cross-sectional studies assessing CAR would need a minimum sample size of 617-783 to detect true effects with 80% power. Depression was linked to higher AUCw and posttraumatic stress to lower AUCw, whereas inconclusive results were obtained for predictor-specific effects on CARi. Suggestions for future CAR research are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ian A Boggero
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, 125 Kastle Hall, Lexington, KY 40506, United States.
| | - Camelia E Hostinar
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, 103 Young Hall, Davis, CA 95616, United States.
| | - Eric A Haak
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, 125 Kastle Hall, Lexington, KY 40506, United States.
| | - Michael L M Murphy
- Department of Psychology, Carnegie Mellon University, 5000 Forbes Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, United States.
| | - Suzanne C Segerstrom
- Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, 125 Kastle Hall, Lexington, KY 40506, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Leggett AN, Liu Y, Klein LC, Zarit SH. Sleep duration and the cortisol awakening response in dementia caregivers utilizing adult day services. Health Psychol 2016; 35:465-73. [PMID: 26348500 PMCID: PMC4781675 DOI: 10.1037/hea0000276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Sleep complaints are common among caregivers and are associated with detriments in mental and physical health. Cortisol, a biomarker of the stress process, may link sleep with subsequent health changes in caregivers. The current study examines whether sleep duration is directly associated with the cortisol awakening response (CAR), or whether it is moderated by Adult Day Services (ADS) use, an intervention found previously to influence daily CAR by reducing stressor exposure. METHOD Associations were examined in caregivers (N = 158) of individuals with dementia (IWD) on days when IWDs attended ADS and days when IWDs did not attend ADS. Data were gathered over 8 consecutive days. Caregivers were primarily female (87.3%) with a mean age of 61.59. A multilevel growth curve model tested the association of an interaction of today's ADS use and last night's sleep duration with today's CAR as the outcome. RESULTS The interaction between ADS use and within-person sleep duration was significant such that when an individual sleeps longer than their average but does not use ADS, they have a smaller or blunted CAR. On the other hand when an individual sleeps longer than their average and uses ADS, they have a higher but nonsignificant CAR. Sleeping shorter than usual was associated with a dynamic rise regardless of ADS use. CONCLUSIONS Findings indicate that ADS use moderates the association between sleep duration and CAR such that longer than average sleep is associated with blunted, dysregulated cortisol patterns only on non-ADS days.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Yin Liu
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Pennsylvania State University
| | | | - Steven H Zarit
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Pennsylvania State University
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Tsang HWH, Cheung WM, Chan AHL, Fung KMT, Leung AY, Au DWH. A pilot evaluation on a stress management programme using a combined approach of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for elementary school teachers. Stress Health 2015; 31:35-43. [PMID: 24038798 DOI: 10.1002/smi.2522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2013] [Revised: 07/21/2013] [Accepted: 07/26/2013] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study is to explore the efficacy of implementing a stress management programme based on a combined approach using cognitive behavioural therapy and complementary and alternative medicine for elementary school teachers who experienced mild level of stress, anxiety and/or depressive symptoms in Hong Kong. A 12-h programme involving cognitive behavioural therapy, self-management, relaxation techniques (diaphragmatic breathing and progressive muscle relaxation), mindful exercises (qigong and yoga), aromatherapy and acupressure was conducted. A quasi-experimental design was used to compare the intervention groups (n = 47) with the wait-list control groups (n = 46). The primary outcome measures were depression, anxiety and stress. Results indicated that the intervention group had significant reduction in depression [(F = 3.93; degrees of freedom (df) = 2.90; p = 0.023)], anxiety (F = 3.37; df = 2.90; p = 0.039) and stress (F = 3.63; df = 2.89; p = 0.031) when compared with the control group. Participants in both groups demonstrated lowered level of salivary cortisol at the post-assessment. The pilot results provided preliminary support to the multi-component stress management programme in relieving affective symptoms of teachers. The programme may be considered as an initial strategy to empower teachers with the abilities to cope with their affective symptoms. Further evaluation using a better designed randomized study with a larger sample size is warranted. (word: 198; max.: 200).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hector W H Tsang
- Neuropsychiatric Rehabilitation Laboratory, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Ruhé HG, Khoenkhoen SJ, Ottenhof KW, Koeter MW, Mocking RJT, Schene AH. Longitudinal effects of the SSRI paroxetine on salivary cortisol in Major Depressive Disorder. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2015; 52:261-71. [PMID: 25544738 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2014.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2014] [Revised: 10/10/2014] [Accepted: 10/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA)-axis dysregulation is a prominent finding in more severe Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), and is characterized by increased baseline cortisol levels at awakening (BCL), blunted cortisol awakening response (CAR) and increased area under the cortisol curve (AUC). Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) appear to normalize HPA-axis dysfunction, but this is hardly investigated longitudinally. We studied salivary BCL, CAR and AUC at awakening and 30min thereafter. We compared measurements in initially drug-free MDD-patients with healthy controls (HCs) at study-entry. In patients, we repeated measures after 6 and 12 weeks' treatment with the SSRI paroxetine. Non-responding patients received a randomized dose-escalation after six weeks' treatment. We found no significant study-entry differences in BLC, CAR or AUC between MDD-patients (n=70) and controls (n=51). In MDD-patients, we found general decreases of BCL and AUC during paroxetine treatment (p≤0.007), especially in late and non-responders. Importantly, while overall CAR did not change significantly over time, it robustly increased over 12 weeks especially when patients achieved remission (p≤0.041). The dose-escalation intervention did not significantly influence CAR or other cortisol parameters. In conclusion, paroxetine seems to interfere with HPA-axis dysregulation, reflected in significant overall decreases in BCL and AUC during treatment. Paroxetine appears to decrease HPA-axis set-point in MDD, which might result in increased HPA-axis activity over time, which is further improved when patients achieve remission (ISRCTN register nr. ISRCTN44111488).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Henricus G Ruhé
- Program for Mood Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, University Center for Psychiatry, Mood and Anxiety Disorders, Groningen, The Netherlands.
| | - Sharina J Khoenkhoen
- Program for Mood Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Koen W Ottenhof
- Program for Mood Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maarten W Koeter
- Program for Mood Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Roel J T Mocking
- Program for Mood Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Aart H Schene
- Program for Mood Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Psychiatry, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Abstract
A vast body of literature has revealed that dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) stress axis is associated with etiology of major depressive disorder (MDD). There are many ways that the dysregulation of the HPA axis can be assessed: by sampling diurnal basal secretion and/or in response to a stress task, pharmacological challenge, and awakening. Here, we focus on the association between cortisol awakening response (CAR), as one index of HPA axis function, and MDD, given that the nature of this association is particularly unclear. Indeed, in the following selective review, we attempt to reconcile sometimes-divergent evidence of the role of CAR in the pathway to depression. We first examine association of CAR with psychological factors that have been linked with increased vulnerability to develop depression. Then, we summarize the findings regarding the CAR profile in those with current depression, and evaluate evidence for the role of CAR following depression resolution and continued vulnerability. Finally, we showcase longitudinal studies showing the role of CAR in predicting depression onset and recurrence. Overall, the studies reveal an important, but complex, association between CAR and vulnerability to depression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katarina Dedovic
- Department of Psychiatry, Douglas Hospital Research Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada ; Social and Affective Neuroscience Laboratory, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Janice Ngiam
- Department of Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Vilela LHM, Juruena MF. Avaliação do funcionamento do eixo HPA em deprimidos por meio de medidas basais: revisão sistemática da literatura e análise das metodologias utilizadas. JORNAL BRASILEIRO DE PSIQUIATRIA 2014. [DOI: 10.1590/0047-2085000000031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Objetivo Realizar revisão sistemática da literatura para conhecer a atividade do eixo hipotálamo-pituitária-adrenal (HPA) em deprimidos considerando-se as medidas basais dos hormônios e analisar criticamente as metodologias utilizadas. Métodos Foi realizada busca de artigos nas bases de dados PubMed e SciELO. Na primeira base de dados, introduziram-se as palavras-chave “depressive disorder” e “HPA axis”, e na segunda utilizaram-se os termos “depression” ou “depressão” e “HHA” ou “HPA axis”. Optou-se por pesquisa realizada em humanos adultos, em inglês e português, do ano 2000 até 2011. Resultados Dos 27 artigos selecionados, obtiveram-se como resposta do eixo HPA tanto hiperatividade como atividade desregulada, hipoatividade ou não alteração. Tais resultados dependem das variáveis e dos hormônios estudados, do fluido coletado – plasma, urina, saliva, líquido cefalorraquidiano – do horário de coleta, do número de coletas, da análise estatística utilizada, do subtipo de doença depressiva, entre outros. Conclusão: Os resultados não apresentam consenso em relação à atividade do eixo HPA. Considerando as variáveis estudadas, o eixo HPA, na maioria das vezes, apresenta-se disfuncional na presença da depressão.
Collapse
|
13
|
The cortisol awakening response – Applications and implications for sleep medicine. Sleep Med Rev 2014; 18:215-24. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smrv.2013.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2012] [Revised: 05/01/2013] [Accepted: 05/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
|
14
|
Ninan PT, Shelton RC, Bao W, Guico-Pabia CJ. BDNF, interleukin-6, and salivary cortisol levels in depressed patients treated with desvenlafaxine. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2014; 48:86-91. [PMID: 24096053 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2013.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2013] [Revised: 09/16/2013] [Accepted: 09/25/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Relationships between brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), interleukin (IL)-6, and salivary cortisol and both depression severity and treatment response were assessed in patients enrolled in a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of desvenlafaxine 50mg/d for MDD. METHODS Outpatients with MDD were randomly assigned to 12weeks of double-blind treatment with desvenlafaxine 50mg/d or placebo (2:1). Baseline severity was assessed using the 17-item Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D17); treatment response at week 12 was based on HAM-D17 total score and response and remission status. Saliva (cortisol) and blood (BDNF, IL-6) samples for biomarker assay were collected at baseline and week 12. Spearman correlations were calculated between the biomarkers at baseline, and between biomarkers and HAM-D17 total score at baseline. Logistic regression analyses were used to assess whether baseline biomarker levels predicted treatment response at week 12, with and without adjustment for baseline HAM-D17 score, treatment, and geographic region. Similarly, an analysis of covariance was used to assess whether baseline disease severity predicted biomarker change at week 12. RESULTS A total of 427 patients who received ≥1 dose of study drug and had baseline and ≥1 on-therapy primary efficacy evaluations were included in the analysis. At baseline, there was a statistically significant although weak correlation between levels of IL-6 and BDNF (Spearman correlation coefficient [rs]=0.120; P=0.014), but no significant correlation between baseline biomarker levels and baseline HAM-D17 total score (absolute value of all rs, ≤0.061). Desvenlafaxine 50mg/d treatment significantly reduced HAM-D17 total score from baseline at week 12 compared with placebo (P=0.006), but the three potential biomarkers did not predict treatment effects. No significant correlations were observed between the change from baseline in any biomarker level and change in HAM-D17 total score at week 12, either overall, or in desvenlafaxine or placebo groups (absolute value of all rs, 0.003-0.196). Baseline levels of BDNF, IL-6, and salivary cortisol did not significantly predict response to treatment at week 12. Although median increase in BDNF was not significantly different between desvenlafaxine (13.7%) and placebo (5.7%) groups, the increase was significantly greater (33.4% vs 4.3%; P=0.003) in patients with more severe depression at baseline (HAM-D17>22) vs those with less severe depression (HAM-D17≤22). No similar findings were observed for IL-6 or salivary cortisol. DISCUSSION Weak or no relationships were observed at baseline between the potential biomarkers or between biomarkers and disease severity. While baseline biomarker level did not predict treatment response, improvement in BDNF was significantly greater among patients who were more severely depressed at baseline.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Philip T Ninan
- East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, United States; Formerly of Pfizer Inc., Collegeville, PA, United States.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Hinkelmann K, Muhtz C, Dettenborn L, Agorastos A, Moritz S, Wingenfeld K, Spitzer C, Gold SM, Wiedemann K, Otte C. Association between cortisol awakening response and memory function in major depression. Psychol Med 2013; 43:2255-2263. [PMID: 23442784 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291713000287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While impaired memory and altered cortisol secretion are characteristic features of major depression, much less is known regarding the impact of antidepressant medication. We examined whether the cortisol awakening response (CAR) is increased in depressed patients with and without medication compared with healthy controls (HC) and whether CAR is associated with memory function in each group. METHOD We examined 21 patients with major depression without medication, 20 depressed patients on antidepressant treatment, and 41 age-, sex- and education-matched healthy subjects. We tested verbal (Auditory Verbal Learning Task) and visuospatial (Rey figure) memory and measured CAR on two consecutive days. RESULTS Patient groups did not differ in severity of depression. We found a significant effect of group (p = 0.03) for CAR. Unmedicated patients exhibited a greater CAR compared with medicated patients (p = 0.04) with no differences between patient groups and HC. We found a significant effect of group for verbal (p = 0.03) and non-verbal memory (p = 0.04). Unmedicated patients performed worse compared with medicated patients and HC in both memory domains. Medicated patients and HC did not differ. Regression analyses revealed a negative association between CAR and memory function in depressed patients, but not in HC. CONCLUSIONS While in unmedicated depressed patients the magnitude of CAR is associated with impaired memory, medicated patients showed a smaller CAR and unimpaired cognitive function compared with HC. Our findings are compatible with the idea that antidepressants reduce CAR and partially restore memory function even if depressive psychopathology is still present.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K Hinkelmann
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité University Medical Center, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Lu S, Gao W, Wei Z, Wu W, Liao M, Ding Y, Zhang Z, Li L. Reduced cingulate gyrus volume associated with enhanced cortisol awakening response in young healthy adults reporting childhood trauma. PLoS One 2013; 8:e69350. [PMID: 23894454 PMCID: PMC3722240 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0069350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2013] [Accepted: 06/08/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Preclinical studies have demonstrated the relationship between stress-induced increased cortisol levels and atrophy of specific brain regions, however, this association has been less revealed in clinical samples. The aim of the present study was to investigate the changes and associations of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity and gray matter volumes in young healthy adults with self-reported childhood trauma exposures. Methods Twenty four healthy adults with childhood trauma and 24 age- and gender-matched individuals without childhood trauma were recruited. Each participant collected salivary samples in the morning at four time points: immediately upon awakening, 30, 45, and 60 min after awakening for the assessment of cortisol awakening response (CAR). The 3D T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging data were obtained on a Philips 3.0 Tesla scanner. Voxel-based morphometry analyses were conducted to compare the gray matter volume between two groups. Correlations of gray matter volume changes with severity of childhood trauma and CAR data were further analyzed. Results Adults with self-reported childhood trauma showed an enhanced CAR and decreased gray matter volume in the right middle cingulate gyrus. Moreover, a significant association was observed between salivary cortisol secretions after awaking and the right middle cingulate gyrus volume reduction in subjects with childhood trauma. Conclusions The present research outcomes suggest that childhood trauma is associated with hyperactivity of the HPA axis and decreased gray matter volume in the right middle cingulate gyrus, which may represent the vulnerability for developing psychosis after childhood trauma experiences. In addition, this study demonstrates that gray matter loss in the cingulate gyrus is related to increased cortisol levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shaojia Lu
- Mental Health Institute, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Key Laboratory of Psychiatry and Mental Health of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Weijia Gao
- Mental Health Institute, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Key Laboratory of Psychiatry and Mental Health of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zhaoguo Wei
- Mental Health Institute, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Key Laboratory of Psychiatry and Mental Health of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Department of Psychiatry, Shenzhen Kangning Hospital, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Weiwei Wu
- Mental Health Institute, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Key Laboratory of Psychiatry and Mental Health of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Mei Liao
- Mental Health Institute, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Key Laboratory of Psychiatry and Mental Health of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yuqiang Ding
- Mental Health Institute, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Key Laboratory of Psychiatry and Mental Health of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Key Laboratory of Arrhythmias, Ministry of Education, East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhijun Zhang
- The Department of Neuropsychiatry and Institute of Neuropsychiatric Research Affiliated ZhongDa Hospital of Southeast University, Nanking, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lingjiang Li
- Mental Health Institute, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Key Laboratory of Psychiatry and Mental Health of Hunan Province, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Department of Psychiatry, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Saban KL, Mathews HL, Bryant FB, O'Brien TE, Janusek LW. Depressive symptoms and diurnal salivary cortisol patterns among female caregivers of stroke survivors. Biol Res Nurs 2012; 14:396-404. [PMID: 22531368 DOI: 10.1177/1099800412439458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Informal caregivers of stroke survivors experience elevated chronic stress and are at risk of developing depressive symptoms. The cumulative effects of chronic stress can increase allostatic load and dysregulate biological processes, thus increasing risk of stress-related disease. Stress-induced alterations in the pattern of cortisol secretion vary with respect to stressor onset, intensity, and chronicity. Little is known about the psychoendocrine response to stress in female caregivers of stroke survivors. The purpose of this study was to examine perceived stress, caregiver burden, and the association between caregiver depressive symptoms and diurnal cortisol in 45 females caring for a significant other who experienced a stroke within the past year. Women completed the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) and collected saliva for cortisol upon awakening, 30 min postawakening, noon, and bedtime for 2 consecutive days. Results revealed that women had high levels of perceived stress and caregiver burden. In women with CES-D scores ≥ 16, salivary cortisol levels were significantly lower across the day relative to women with CES-D scores < 16. This difference persisted after adjusting for age, number of caregiving hours per week, perceived social support, and quality of sleep. Younger age was associated with more depressive symptoms as well as lower levels of cortisol at awakening and 30 min postawakening. Results demonstrate that the burden of caregiving increases risk of depressive symptoms and hypocortisolism across the day. Hypocortisolism may contribute to increased risk of depressive symptoms as a result of the loss of glucocorticoid attenuation of stress-induced inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karen L Saban
- Loyola University Chicago, Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing, Maywood, IL 60153, USA.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Starcke K, Brand M. Decision making under stress: a selective review. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2012; 36:1228-48. [PMID: 22342781 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2012.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 381] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2011] [Revised: 01/30/2012] [Accepted: 02/02/2012] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Many decisions must be made under stress, and many decision situations elicit stress responses themselves. Thus, stress and decision making are intricately connected, not only on the behavioral level, but also on the neural level, i.e., the brain regions that underlie intact decision making are regions that are sensitive to stress-induced changes. The purpose of this review is to summarize the findings from studies that investigated the impact of stress on decision making. The review includes those studies that examined decision making under stress in humans and were published between 1985 and October 2011. The reviewed studies were found using PubMed and PsycInfo searches. The review focuses on studies that have examined the influence of acutely induced laboratory stress on decision making and that measured both decision-making performance and stress responses. Additionally, some studies that investigated decision making under naturally occurring stress levels and decision-making abilities in patients who suffer from stress-related disorders are described. The results from the studies that were included in the review support the assumption that stress affects decision making. If stress confers an advantage or disadvantage in terms of outcome depends on the specific task or situation. The results also emphasize the role of mediating and moderating variables. The results are discussed with respect to underlying psychological and neural mechanisms, implications for everyday decision making and future research directions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Starcke
- Department of General Psychology: Cognition, University of Duisburg-Essen, 47057 Duisburg, Germany.
| | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Gex-Fabry M, Jermann F, Kosel M, Rossier MF, Van der Linden M, Bertschy G, Bondolfi G, Aubry JM. Salivary cortisol profiles in patients remitted from recurrent depression: one-year follow-up of a mindfulness-based cognitive therapy trial. J Psychiatr Res 2012; 46:80-6. [PMID: 21982583 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2011.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2011] [Revised: 09/02/2011] [Accepted: 09/21/2011] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Few studies have examined changes of diurnal cortisol profiles prospectively, in relation to non-pharmacological interventions such as mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT). Fifty-six patients remitted from recurrent depression (≥3 episodes) were included in an 8-week randomized controlled trial comparing MBCT plus treatment as usual (TAU) with TAU for depression relapse prophylaxis. Saliva samples (0, 15, 30, 45, 60 min post-awakening, 3 PM, 8 PM) were collected on six occasions (pre- and post-intervention, 3-, 6-, 9-, 12-month follow-up). Cortisol awakening response (CAR), average day exposure (AUCday) and diurnal slope were analyzed with mixed effects models (248 profiles, 1-6 per patient). MBCT (n = 28) and TAU groups (n = 28) did not significantly differ with respect to baseline variables. Intra-individual variability exceeded inter-individual variability for the CAR (62.2% vs. 32.5%), AUC(day) (30.9% vs. 23.6%) and diurnal slope (51.0% vs. 34.2%). No time, group and time by group effect was observed for the CAR and diurnal slope. A significant time effect (p = 0.003) was detected for AUCday, which was explained by seasonal variations (p = 0.012). Later wake-up was associated with lower CAR (-11.7% per 1-hour later awakening, p < 0.001) and lower AUCday (-4.5%, p = 0.014). Longer depression history was associated with dampened CAR (-15.2% per 10-year longer illness, p = 0.003) and lower AUCday (-8.8%, p = 0.011). Unchanged cortisol secretion patterns following participation in MBCT should be interpreted with regard to large unexplained variability, similar relapse rates in both groups and study limitations. Further research is needed to address the scar hypothesis of diminished HPA activity with a longer, chronic course of depression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marianne Gex-Fabry
- Department of Mental Health and Psychiatry, Geneva University Hospitals, 2 chemin du Petit-Bel-Air, CH-1225 Chêne-Bourg, Geneva, Switzerland.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Jabben N, Nolen WA, Smit JH, Vreeburg SA, Beekman ATF, Penninx BWJH. Co-occurring manic symptomatology influences HPA axis alterations in depression. J Psychiatr Res 2011; 45:1208-13. [PMID: 21450306 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2011.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2010] [Revised: 02/10/2011] [Accepted: 03/07/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Although dysfunctioning of the HPA axis is considered to be a core pathophysiological process in mood disorders, the evidence with regard to depression remains conflicting. This could partly be due to the large heterogeneity within mood disorders, since HPA axis abnormalities may also be associated with the extent of co-occurring manic symptomatology as is seen in bipolar disorder. In this study, patients with depressive disorder and bipolar spectrum disorders were studied with regard to their HPA axis functioning. In 304 healthy controls, 1,134 patients with pure unipolar depressive disorder (UP), and 133 bipolar spectrum disorder patients (BD spectrum), cortisol was measured in 7 saliva samples to determine the 1 h cortisol awakening response (CAR), evening cortisol levels and cortisol suppression after a 0.5 mg dexamethasone suppression test. Both patient groups had overall higher CAR levels compared to controls, but only UP patients showed a higher increase over time in the CAR. A linear association was found between increasing bipolarity and cortisol diurnal slope: BD spectrum patients had a significantly higher diurnal slope than UP patients. Dexamethasone suppression did not differ between mood disorder diagnoses. The heterogeneity in HPA axis functioning in patients with depression can partially be explained by co-existing manic symptomatology, since an increase in the CAR appears to be more specific for pure depression whereas the presence of bipolarity is associated with an increase in the diurnal slope of cortisol.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nienke Jabben
- Department of Psychiatry, EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Center, AJ Ernststraat 1187, 1081 HL Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Brand S, Wilhelm FH, Kossowsky J, Holsboer-Trachsler E, Schneider S. Children suffering from separation anxiety disorder (SAD) show increased HPA axis activity compared to healthy controls. J Psychiatr Res 2011; 45:452-9. [PMID: 20870248 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2010.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2010] [Revised: 08/26/2010] [Accepted: 08/27/2010] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTIONS Separation anxiety disorder (SAD) is one of the most common mental disorders in childhood, and one of the earliest emerging. Little is known about the association between SAD and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) axis activity. Therefore, the present study aimed at investigating this association in children suffering from separation anxiety compared to healthy controls. METHODS A total of 31 children with diagnosed SAD (mean age: 8.45; 17 females, 14 males) and 25 healthy controls (HC; mean age: 9.74; 12 females, 13 males) took part in the study. All participants underwent psycho-physiological testing for HPA axis challenge. Testing consisted of a separation and a social exposure paradigm. Saliva samples to assess HPA axis-related cortisol secretion were gathered in parallel. RESULTS Compared to healthy controls, children with SAD showed greatly increased HPA axis activity, as reflected by an increased cortisol secretion throughout the entire period of investigation. The rise of cortisol was already observed in anticipation of, but not following the separation paradigm. No gender-related differences of cortisol secretion were observed. CONCLUSIONS Separation anxiety disorder (SAD) in children is reflected in greatly increased HPA axis activity. Compared to healthy controls, children with SAD showed increased cortisol values from the beginning of, and throughout, the entire investigation. This pattern of results suggests that both the anticipation of a separation and a persistent hyperactivity of the HPA axis system leads to an increased cortisol secretion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Serge Brand
- Psychiatric Hospital of the University of Basel, Depression and Sleep Research Unit, Wilhelm Klein-Strasse 27, 4012 Basel, Switzerland.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|