The impact of post-traumatic stress disorder on hippocampal volume

Abstract

Essentially, it is believed that stress leads to changes in neuronal morphology, suppression of neuronal development, and a reduction in hippocampal volume in both humans and animals. Stress is any condition that can negatively affect the psychological and, consequently, physiological well-being of an organism. When this condition becomes excessive or chronic, it can lead to anxiety, as well as psychiatric disorders such as depression and schizophrenia, alongside behavioral disturbances and the use of harmful substances. Studies conducted on both animals and humans have reported that the hippocampus, a region of the medial temporal brain involved in the formation of short-term memory, is highly sensitive to stress and presents pathological findings. In this review, we aim to examine in detail the effects of stress disorders, resulting from trauma, on hippocampal volume.

Cite this article as: Koçak M, Erbaş O. The impact of post-traumatic stress disorder on hippocampal volume. D J Tx Sci 2024;9(1-2):17-20. doi: 10.5606/ dsufnjt.2024.20.