[Depersonalization--current data].
OBJECTIVE
Depersonalization is a fascinating clinical phenomenon referring to a self-consciousness disorder, characterized by emotional detachment from one's own feelings, thoughts, or actions. This article intends to summarize the current literature in this area.


METHODS
Using the Medline data base, we reviewed literature addressing the clinical, etiology, nosology, physiopathology, and treatment of depersonalization.


CONCLUSIONS
Derealization means that perception of the world and of external reality are altered. These 2 phenomena are often associated. They are not specific to any psychiatric entity and are reported in many different psychiatric syndromes. Many factors, including use of different substances, are involved in their onset. The physiopathology is still little known. However, some conceptual models suggest partial amygdala inhibition combined with activation of other amygdaloid structures. A serotoninergic functioning impairment is indicated in different pharmacologic studies. Different psychotropic drugs, especially serotoninergic antidepressants, have been proposed for pharmacotherapy; however, there are no conclusive randomized studies, and the contribution of psychotherapy in treating these patients is still questioned.
Khazaal
Yasser
Y
Département Universitaire de Psychiatrie Adulte, Hôpital de Cery, Prilly-Lausanne. Yasser.Khazaal@hospvd.ch
Zimmermann
Grégoire
G
Zullino
Daniele Fabio
DF
D000679:Amygdala / Q000503:physiopathology; D018687:Antidepressive Agents, Second-Generation / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001364:Awareness / Q000502:physiology; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D003861:Depersonalization / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D012929:Psychological Distance; D011613:Psychotherapy; D012701:Serotonin / Q000378:metabolism; D017367:Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use; D012938:Social Perception
D018687:Antidepressive Agents, Second-Generation; D012701:Serotonin; D017367:Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors