Metabolic dysfunctions in people with post-traumatic stress disorder

Objectives The association between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and metabolic dysfunctions has attracted growing attention in recent years. Understanding and identifying common inflammatory and neuroendocrine mechanisms can help clinicians to improve the treatment and prognosis of these co-occurring conditions. Methods We conducted an overview, summarizing biological mechanisms and related biomarkers underlying the relationship between PTSD and metabolic dysfunctions Results Evidence suggests that PTSD may be associated with metabolic abnormalities. Metabolic syndrome in PTSD may impact both cardiovascular health and central nervous system functions. The role of traumatic events in influencing inflammatory and immuno-metabolic systems seems supported by available studies. Exposure to trauma may determine neuroendocrine responses and long-lasting changes in the regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, affecting its physiological activity Conclusions Dysfunctional adaptation to stress may increase the vulnerability to metabolic abnormalities which, in turn, may favor the occurrence of psychopathological features after traumatic experiences. Approaching PTSD as a systemic condition by assessing, monitoring, and treating metabolic variations may lead to a significant improvement in its management and prognosis. Further research is needed to test novel treatments for PTSD, targeting neuroendocrine and immune-metabolic systems.