PSYCHOPATHOLOGY IN WOMEN AND MEN - FOCUS ON FEMALE HORMONES

Objective: The goal of this overview is to examine male/female differe nces in psychopathology in light of the known effects of gonadal stero ids, especially estradiol, on neural function. Method: The epidemiolog y of specific psychopathological syndromes is highlighted with respect to male/female differences and discussed against the backdrop of rece nt neuroendocrine findings. Results: A number of differences between t he sexes in rates of illness and course of illness are documented, wit h Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia, alcoholism, and mood and anxiety disorders each illustrating slightly different hormone-mediated risks and buffers. Conclusions: Estrogens are neuroprotective with respect to neuronal degeneration, growth, and susceptibility to toxins. The cy clic fluctuations of estrogens and progesterone enhance the response t o stress, which confers susceptibility to depression and anxiety.