Premenstrual syndrome - Advances in diagnosis and treatment

The diagnosis and treatment of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) has advanced sig nificantly in the past decade, in particular, for premenstrual dysphoric di sorder (PDD), a severe form of PMS with strict diagnostic criteria. Althoug h the underlying pathophysiology remains unclear, increasing evidence suppo rts an alteration in sensitivity of central nervous system neurotransmitter s, particularly serotonergic transmitters, to fluctuating levels of ovarian sex steroids. Successful therapy for PDD is achieved with serotonergically active drugs, such as the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Increas ed attention is being placed on intermittent luteal phase administration of these drugs.