Review Article

Panic Disorder: Is the PAG Involved?

Table 1

Phenomenological similarities between panic attacks and effects of electrical stimulation of the periaqueductal gray matter (PAG) in humans and rats. Adapted from Jenck et al. [11] and Schenberg et al. [12].

Spontaneous panic attackStimulation of dorsal PAG in humansStimulation of dorsal PAG in rats

Intense fear or discomfortPanic, terror
Intense distressAversion
Palpitations, pounding heart, or accelerated heart rateTachycardiaTachycardia
SweatingSweating
Trembling or shakingSensation of vibration
Sensations of shortness of breath or smotheringTachypnea
HyperventilationHyperventilation
Apnea
Chest pain or discomfortChest and heart pain
Nausea or abdominal distressBladder voiding urgeMicturation
Defecation
Fear of dying“Scared to death”Escape responses
Chills or hot flushes“Burn/cold” sensations