biological marker identified...

tiny

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Finally, researchers have found how to identify PTSD. This is good news for those who suffer from it because it goes a long way to removing the cloud of doubt that has always followed them. Now they can "see" it, much like seeing scars or blood tests. Time to move forward and instead of making sure the soldiers suffering from it aren't faking they can start treating them.

Good news. Good day.

http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2010-01/uom-rdm011910.php

MINNEAPOLIS / ST. PAUL (January 20, 2010) – Researchers at the University of Minnesota and Minneapolis VA Medical Center have identified a biological marker in the brains of those exhibiting post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

A group of 74 United States veterans were involved in the study, which for the first time objectively diagnoses PTSD using magnetoencephalography (MEG), a non-invasive measurement of magnetic fields in the brain. It's something conventional brain scans such as an X-ray, CT, or MRI have failed to do.

The ability to objectively diagnose PTSD is the first step towards helping those afflicted with this severe anxiety disorder. PTSD often stems from war, but also can be a result of exposure to any psychologically traumatic event. The disorder can manifest itself in flashbacks, recurring nightmares, anger, or hypervigilance.
 

Zoombie

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This is FANTASTIC!

Like, seriously, if we can detect it, then we can stop dicking around and get straight to the treatment...and more than that, it advances our knowledge of the condition which is always a good thing!

WTG scientists!
 

StephanieFox

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Minneapolis/St.Paul, my town! They do good science here.

Something else. The gene that causes obsessive compulsive disorder in dogs, which they are saying will help lead to the gene that causes the condition in people. That wasn't a local find, though.

These are small steps, but I hope that within a few years, these discoveries will lead to some effective treatments.
 

thothguard51

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Identifying and treating is a good thing. But will this lead to screening of people like any medical exam. If the screening reveals a person has the markers, then they will be not be fit for certain jobs, like postal employee, police officer, EMT, or even in the military. Exhibiting the markers does not mean everyone will suffer from PTSD. Or does it? Still lots of exploring to do...
 

tiny

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The marker means they have it. PTSD changes the brain. There has always been some difficulty in diagnosing it. Psychological exams aren't easily faked, but it is possible. It's not a "screen" so to speak, it's a diagnosis. And a solid one, finally.