Pathophysiology

Pathophysiology:

The immediate physiologic response to trauma can be significant and may set the stage for lasting PTSD symptoms. Alterations in the noradrenergic and dopaminergic neurotransmitter systems and the stress response of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis are well documented in PTSD. Some evidence suggests that chronic PTSD, perhaps through these physiologic changes, can lead to changes in brain microarchitecture.


http://www.emedicine.com/PED/topic2650.htm