Diagnosing and managing panic disorder in primary care

Abstract

Panic disorder is a common and frightening disorder, but it is often under-diagnosed and under-treated. It has a high morbidity and mortality including suicide. The causes are multi-factorial, both biological and psychosocial. Co-morbidities include agoraphobia, other anxiety disorders, depressive disorder and substance abuse. A diagnosis checklist is suggested. Management using medications and/or cognitive-behavioural therapy is not difficult and relatively safe. Prompt recognition and treatment can have a gratifying response and good prognosis.