title: Neurobiological Basis of Hypersexuality.
abstract: Until now, hypersexuality has not found entry into the common diagnostic classification systems. However it is a frequently discussed phenomenon consisting of excessive sexual appetite that is maladaptive for the individual. Initial studies investigated the neurobiological underpinnings of hypersexuality, but current literature is still insufficient to draw unequivocal conclusions. In the present review, we summarize and discuss findings from various perspectives: neuroimaging and lesion studies, studies on other neurological disorders that are sometimes accompanied by hypersexuality, neuropharmacological evidence, genetic as well as animal studies. Taken together, the evidence seems to imply that alterations in the frontal lobe, amygdala, hippocampus, hypothalamus, septum, and brain regions that process reward play a prominent role in the emergence of hypersexuality. Genetic studies and neuropharmacological treatment approaches point at an involvement of the dopaminergic system.
authors: University Clinic Hamburg-Eppendorf, Clinic and Polyclinic for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hamburg, Germany; Center for Lifespan Psychology, Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Berlin, Germany. Electronic address: kuehn@mpib-berlin.mpg.de.
authors: S
authors: S
authors: Kühn
authors: University Clinic Hamburg-Eppendorf, Clinic and Polyclinic for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hamburg, Germany.
authors: J
authors: J
authors: Gallinat
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D016739:Behavior, Addictive / Q000503:physiopathology; D001921:Brain / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D009446:Neurobiology; D059906:Neuroimaging; D012735:Sexual Dysfunction, Physiological / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000235:genetics / Q000473:pathology*; D020018:Sexual Dysfunctions, Psychological / Q000235:genetics / Q000473:pathology*
keywords: Compulsive sexual behavior; Excessive nonparaphilic sexual behavior; Hypersexuality; Sex addiction