Panic Disorder and Phobias

A 32-year-old woman presents with recurrent, unexpected panic attacks characterized by palpitations, dyspnea, chest pain, and fear of dying. She has been avoiding public places and crowded settings due to fear of having another attack in situations where escape might be difficult. Physical examination and routine blood work are normal. Which investigation is most appropriate to exclude organic causes before confirming panic disorder?

A 28-year-old man with a 3-year history of specific phobia (fear of flying) is being evaluated for cognitive-behavioral therapy. He experiences intense anxiety and avoidance whenever he anticipates air travel. His therapist requests a baseline assessment tool to measure the severity of phobic anxiety and track treatment response. Which investigation is most appropriate for this purpose?

A 28-year-old man with a 3-year history of specific phobia (fear of flying) is referred for pharmacological management before an upcoming business trip. He has failed cognitive-behavioral therapy. Which drug is the most appropriate choice for acute symptom management in specific phobia?

A 32-year-old woman presents with recurrent, unexpected panic attacks characterized by sudden onset of palpitations, sweating, tremor, and fear of dying. She has developed anticipatory anxiety and avoidance of public places. Which is the drug of choice for long-term management of panic disorder?

A 32-year-old woman presents with recurrent episodes of sudden-onset palpitations, chest tightness, and fear of dying lasting 15–20 minutes, occurring unpredictably 2–3 times per week for the past 3 months. She reports no chest pain, dyspnea, or syncope during attacks. Physical examination and resting ECG are normal. Which investigation is most appropriate to exclude cardiac etiology before confirming panic disorder?