Current Practical Progress and Dilemmas in the Study of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

Abstract

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PPD) refers to a range of symptoms which are related to the menstrual cycle, which is not only accompanied by severe physical symptoms, but often by severe emotional symptoms as well. This can have a serious impact not only on the patient's daily life, but also on the social costs. To date, however, the etiology of this disorder is not well understood and there are not very accurate, objective diagnostic methods or universally applicable special treatment options. This article aims to summaries some of the research literature relating to the etiology, diagnosis and treatment of PPD, over the last approximately 15 years, with a view to providing some insight into future research on PDD. The etiology of PDD may be related to 5-HT, GABAergic dysregulation and abnormal response of GABAA receptors to allopregnanolone. PDDs diagnosis relies primarily on a number of scale assessments and information from medical history and physical examination. Common first and second line treatment options are antidepressants and oral contraceptives (OCs) respectively. Symptoms of PDD can also be reduced with some psychosocial treatment.