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Semin Reprod Med 1997; 15(1): 55-68
DOI: 10.1055/s-2008-1067968
Copyright © 1997 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.

Psychobiology of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

Barbara L. Parry
  • Associate Professor of Psychiatry, University of California, Department of Psychiatry, San Diego, La Jolla, California
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Publication History

Publication Date:
15 March 2008 (online)

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Abstract

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is the new terminology used in the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV). It more rigorously defines criteria for what historically has been referred to as premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Based on studies of its phenomenology and course, PMDD was categorized in DSM-IV as a depressive mood disorder. Findings support low serotonin and melatonin metabolism in PMDD compared with healthy control subjects, and an increasing number of rigorous studies report a reduction of symptoms with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

Keywords:

PMS - depression - menstrual cycle - endocrinology

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