Exam 1 Review Flashcards
(61 cards)
What is the core concept of the Dopamine Hypothesis of psychosis?
Hyperactivity of dopaminergic transmission in mesolimbic pathway
This hypothesis suggests that excessive dopamine activity leads to positive symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions.
What neurotransmitter is primarily involved in the Dopamine Hypothesis?
Dopamine (DA)
What is the mechanism of the Dopamine Hypothesis?
Excessive dopamine activity leads to positive symptoms (hallucinations, delusions)
What is the core concept of the Glutamate Hypothesis?
Hypofunction of NMDA glutamate receptors
This hypothesis posits that reduced glutamate activity contributes to both positive and negative symptoms.
What neurotransmitter is associated with the Glutamate Hypothesis?
Glutamate (NMDA receptors)
What is the mechanism of the Glutamate Hypothesis?
Reduced glutamate activity leads to both positive and negative symptoms
What is the core concept of the Serotonin Hypothesis?
Dysregulation of the serotonin system
Which neurotransmitter is particularly involved in the Serotonin Hypothesis?
Serotonin (5-HT), particularly 5-HT2A receptors
What mechanism contributes to positive symptoms in the Serotonin Hypothesis?
Excessive 5-HT2A activity contributes to positive symptoms and perceptual disturbances
What is the location of the Mesolimbic Pathway?
Ventral tegmental area (VTA) → nucleus accumbens, limbic structures
What is the function of the Mesolimbic Pathway?
Reward, motivation, emotion
What clinical significance is associated with hyperactivity in the Mesolimbic Pathway?
Causes positive symptoms (hallucinations, delusions) and is a target for antipsychotic treatment
What is the location of the Mesocortical Pathway?
VTA → prefrontal cortex
What is the function of the Mesocortical Pathway?
Executive function, working memory, attention
What clinical significance is associated with hypoactivity in the Mesocortical Pathway?
Causes negative symptoms and cognitive dysfunction; blocking this pathway worsens negative symptoms
What is the location of the Nigrostriatal Pathway?
Substantia nigra → striatum (caudate nucleus, putamen)
What is the function of the Nigrostriatal Pathway?
Motor control, movement coordination
What clinical significance is associated with blocking the Nigrostriatal Pathway?
Causes extrapyramidal side effects (EPS), including Parkinsonism, dystonia, akathisia
What is the location of the Tuberoinfundibular Pathway?
Hypothalamus → pituitary gland
What is the function of the Tuberoinfundibular Pathway?
Prolactin regulation
What clinical significance is associated with blocking the Tuberoinfundibular Pathway?
Causes hyperprolactinemia, leading to gynecomastia, galactorrhea, sexual dysfunction, amenorrhea
What are the signs and symptoms of Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS)?
- Hyperthermia (>38°C/100.4°F)
- Muscle rigidity
- Altered mental status
- Autonomic instability (tachycardia, hypertension, diaphoresis)
- Elevated creatine kinase (CK)
What is the first step in managing Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome?
Immediate discontinuation of antipsychotic
What are common side effects of Aripiprazole (Abilify)?
- Restlessness
- Insomnia
- Nausea
- Akathisia