Latest Research
A Role for Leptin in Psychiatric Disorders?
August 18, 2011 at 1:52 pm
We already know that leptin, a hormone derived from adipocytes, has a role in metabolism and homeostasis and may play a role in weight-associated psychiatric disorders such as anorexia and bulimia nervosa. Recent research, which is covered in this article, looks at the role of leptin in bipolar and depressive disorders, psychotic disorders, dementia and alcohol dependence.
It will be interesting to see if future studies can define a role for leptin in the pathogenesis of these disorders, making it a possible therapeutic target.
Zupancic ML, Mahajan A. Psychosom Med 2011 Jun; 73: 407
A Herbal Remedy for Alzheimer’s Disease?
May 26, 2011 at 1:53 pm
The journal Neurology reports on the improvement in both the ADAS-Cog and MMSE scores in patients with mild-moderate dementia using a supplement called Huperzine A – which is a natural acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitor derived from the herb Huperzia serrata.
No significant improvement was seen on the 200ug dose, but improvement compared with placebo was seen using the 400ug dose.
Most of the patients who had previously discontinued other AChE inhibitors due to side effects tolerated Huperzine A, suggesting this maybe a useful alternative for patients requiring treatment.
Rafii MS, et al. Neurology 2011; 76: 1389
Separating Psychogenic from Epileptic Seizures
May 26, 2011 at 1:33 pm
Distinguishing epileptic seizures (ES) from psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) can be difficult. Researchers have published a paper in the Annals of Neurology which lists 6 signs that could help distinguish the two, based on confirmation by video electroencephalography.
The 3 signs for PNES were “preserved awareness”, “eye flutter”, and the ability of bystanders to intensify or alleviate the seizure. The 3 signs associated with ES were “eye opening or widening at onset”, abrupt onset and post seizure confusion or sleep.
Editorialists reinforced the need for prompt monitoring in all patients with seizures regardless of the type suspected.
Syed TU, et al. Ann Neurol 2011
Technology helps tame ‘black dog’
April 6, 2011 at 12:10 pm
Two new trials have found online and email-based support are effective at reducing the incidence of developing anxiety or depression, a conference will hear today.
Professor Helen Christensen will discuss the results of the two ‘e-mental’ health programs at the 5th International Society for Research on Internet Interventions Conferencebeing held today in Sydney.
To read a full transcript of the interview CLICK HERE.
Courtesy: ABC Health
Mental health funding a travesty: Ian Hickie
March 15, 2011 at 3:32 pm
The Medicare-funded mental health system has been labelled a "travesty" by government advisor Professor Ian Hickie.
A Government report into mental health services to be released on March 15th, 2011 shows that spending is four times higher than what’s been budgeted, and the people benefitting the most from Medicare-funded services are the wealthy.
To listen to the interview between ABC reporter Michael Vincent and Prof Ian Hickie, CLICK HERE.
To read a full transcript of the interview CLICK HERE.
Courtesy: ABC Health
Bob Hawke offers personal perspective on Glaucoma
March 2, 2011 at 10:42 am
Former Prime Minster, the Hon. Bob Hawke AC, talks with Broadcast GP Medical Editor, Dr Michael Johnston about the impact that glaucoma has had upon both his personal and professional life.
ADHD - A Genetic Disorder?
January 7, 2011 at 12:04 pm
A Lancet study has suggested that ADHD may be a genetic disorder after it was found that subtle abnormalities in chromosomal structure are significantly more frequent in people with the disorder than controls.
The abnormalities were found on a location in chromosome 16 that is linked to autism and schizophrenia.
Williams NM, et al. Lancet 2010
Somatic Complications of Childhood Sexual Abuse
September 16, 2009 at 3:05 pm
Childhood sexual abuse, which has been reported in an estimated 16% of adult men and 25% of women, has well-documented psychiatric and neurobiological sequelae, which may help us understand somatic disorders.
In this study, researchers report results from a meta-analysis of 23 studies that looked at a possible link between childhood sexual abuse and a range of common disorders that have obscure aetiologies.
They found a significant link between childhood sexual abuse and the risk for functional gastrointestinal disorders, chronic non-specific pain, chronic pelvic pain and psychogenic non-epileptic seizure disorder.
A sub-analysis involving a history of rape revealed significant associations with fibromyalgia, chronic pelvic pain and functional gastrointestinal disorders.
It is worth enquiring about a history of sexual abuse in these patients as evidence suggests processing these past experiences is associated with relief of symptoms and improved quality of life.
Paras ML, et al. Sexual abuse and lifetime diagnosis of somatic disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA 2009; 302: 550
http://jama.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/full/302/5/550?linkType=FULL&journalCode=jama&resid=302/5/550
