PLATELET SEROTONIN AND [H-3] PAROXETINE BINDING CORRELATE WITH RECURRENCE OF SUICIDAL-BEHAVIOR

To distinguish state- from trait-dependent associations between seroto nergic function and suicidal behavior platelet serotonergic measures w ere repeatedly measured, during a 1-year follow-up, in 106 patients wh o had recently attempted suicide for at least a second time. A major D SM-III-R axis I diagnosis or use of antidepressants were reasons for e xclusion. A higher affinity constant (KD) of platelet [H-3]paroxetine binding was related to a higher risk of short-term recurrence of a sui cide attempt, suggesting a state relationship, Higher levels of platel et serotonin at baseline were a significant predictor of a recurrent s uicide attempt within the year of follow-up, suggesting a trait relati onship. These associations held equally within the subgroup of 73 pati ents with a borderline personality disorder, Neither the maximum numbe r of binding sites (B-max) of [H-3]paroxetine nor platelet monoamine o xidase activity correlated with suicidality. The observed association between indicators of platelet serotonin uptake and suicidal behavior suggests a state- and trait-dependency between suicidality and central serotonergic dysfunction.