Περίληψη:
The investigation of biological correlates of suicidal behavior is
important for identifying high-risk subjects. The objective of this
study was to examine the neurochemical variables’ platelet MAO activity
and urinary MHPG, 5HIAA and HVA, the main metabolites of noradrenaline,
serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters that are considered to be
involved in the pathophysiology of suicidal behavior, as well as plasma
cortisol, in a group of subjects with adjustment disorder after a
suicide attempt. Fifty-three patients, 42 females and 11 males, were
included in the study and were compared to a group of 50 healthy
controls, 25 females and 25 males. Platelet MAO activity was found to be
significantly lower in both male and female patients compared to
controls of the same sex (P < 0.001 for both comparisons). 5HIAA and HVA
were not different between patients and controls, but MHPG was
significantly higher in the patients group (P = 0.008). Moreover, plasma
levels of cortisol were significantly higher in the patients compared to
the controls (P < 0.001). Our results confirm the hypothesis of low
platelet MAO activity as a biological characteristic of patients who
attempt suicide. They also point to a possible parallel activation of
the noradrenergic system. (C) 2000 Editions scientifiques et medicales
Elsevier SAS.
Συγγραφείς:
Tripodianakis, J
Markianos, M
Sarantidis, D
Leotsakou, C
