Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

In the wake of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, physicians have been confronted with patients who have suffered psychological trauma. This Review Article examines an extreme reaction, the post-traumatic stress disorder, which may follow a variety of traumatic events. The author defines the syndrome, its clinical features, and research findings on its biologic aspects. For patients who require therapy, she discusses both counseling and pharmacologic approaches.