Περίληψη:
The investigation of biological correlates of suicidal behavior is
important in searching for possible changes in neuronal systems activity
related to that behavior, so that pharmacological interventions may be
proposed, especially in high-risk subjects. In a sample of 111 subjects
admitted in a general hospital after suicide attempt, we studied the
turnover of neurotransmitters by measuring the urinary output of the
main metabolites of serotonin, dopamine and noradrenaline (5-HIAA, HVA,
MHPG respectively), as well as serum cholesterol, and compared them to
those of a group of 62 healthy controls. Venous blood samples and urine
samples were collected within 24 hours of admission. Psychiatric
diagnosis was made according to DSM-IIIR criteria and assessment of
suicide intent with Beck’s Suicidal Intent Scale (SIS). Fifty-four (54)
subjects received the diagnosis of adjustment disorder, 25 of
depression, 16 of schizophrenia and 16 of personality disorder. Fourteen
subjects (14) had employed a violent mode of attempt. Urinary MHPG was
found significantly higher in all diagnostic groups compared to
controls. No difference was found concerning the excretion of HVA and
5-HIAA. Serum total cholesterol was found significantly lower both in
violent and non-violent attempters compared to controls after correcting
for age. No difference in serum cholesterol or MHPG was found between
violent and non-violent attempts. Serum cholesterol and MHPG correlated
negatively, while the correlations between cholesterol and 5-HIAA or HVA
were not significant. Our results confirm previous reports of lower
serum cholesterol in attempted suicide. They are also indicative of an
increased noradrenaline turnover in subjects who attempt suicide, at
least within 24 hours after the attempt. Whether this activation
precedes or follows the attempt because of the specific stress, can not
be answered at present.
Συγγραφείς:
Tripodianakis, J
Markianos, M
Sarantidis, D
Agouridaki, M
