Overview Each of the syndromes described in this chapter involves a complex interaction of motor, behavioral, and systemic manifestations that are derived from mechanisms that are not fully clear. What is clear is that neurotransmitters, such as dopamine (DA), gamma-aminobutyric…
The structure and function of the central nervous system (CNS) is altered by many neurologic disorders. Because the CNS controls affect, behavior, and cognition, neurologic disorders may lead to neuropsychiatric symptoms that resemble those found in primary psychiatric conditions. Therefore,…
Overview The structure and function of the central nervous system (CNS) is altered by many neurologic disorders. Because the CNS controls affect, behavior, and cognition, neurologic disorders can lead to neuropsychiatric symptoms that resemble those found in primary psychiatric conditions.…
Overview A major depressive disorder (MDD) serious enough to warrant professional care affects approximately 16% of the general population during their life-time. Both the Epidemiological Catchment Area (ECA) study and the National Comorbidity Survey study have found that MDD is…
Although the interview and the mental status examination compose the primary diagnostic tools in psychiatry, the use of standardized rating scales and laboratory tests provides important adjunctive data. In addition to ruling out medical and neurologic explanations for psychiatric symptoms,…
This chapter provides a practical approach to the assessment of affective, behavioral, and cognitive problems of patients in the general hospital. We first survey the landscape of consultation psychiatry and then identify six broad domains of psychiatric problems commonly encountered…
Psychosomatic Medicine A keen interest in the relationship between the psyche and the soma has been maintained in medicine since early times, and certain ancient physicians (such as Hippocrates) have been eloquent on the subject. A search for the precise…
Key Points Psychiatrists are particularly vulnerable to workplace stress and to burnout. Especially challenging aspects of psychiatry include patient suicide, malpractice litigation, and residency training. Diverse coping strategies can be used to prevent and to manage difficult situations. Overview The…
Key Points Background Catatonia, neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), and serotonin syndrome are neuropsychiatric conditions with prominent motor, behavioral, and systemic manifestations. Catatonia is a syndrome with multiple medical, neurological, and psychiatric etiologies that requires a systematic approach for diagnosis. NMS…
Key Points Suicide, or intentional self-harm with the intent of causing death, is one of the most common causes of death in the US. For every completed suicide, between 8 and 25 attempts are made. Psychiatric illness is the most…