Citation

Braakman M, Kortmann F, Van Den Brink W. Acta Psychiatr. Scand. 2009; 119(1): 15-24.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2009, John Wiley and Sons)

DOI

10.1111/j.1600-0447.2008.01252.x

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Objective: To review the evidence from empirical studies regarding the validity of ‘post‐traumatic stress disorder with secondary psychotic features’ (PTSD‐SP) as a separate diagnostic entity.

Method: The authors performed a review tracing publications between 1980 and January 2008.

Results: Twenty‐four comparative studies were included. These studies indicate that PTSD‐SP is a syndrome that comprises PTSD‐symptoms followed in time by the additional appearance of psychotic features. The psychotic features are not confined to episodes of re‐experiencing, but remain present continuously. PTSD‐SP seems to have some biological features differentiating it from schizophrenia and PTSD, e.g. there are differences in smooth pursuit eye movement patterns, concentrations of corticotropin‐releasing factor and dopamine β‐hydroxylase activity.

Conclusion: There is currently not yet full support for PTSD‐SP as a nosological entity. However, the delineation of PTSD‐SP from other psychiatric syndromes is notable and biological studies seem to support the validity as a separate diagnostic entity.