Amine Metabolites, Neuroendocrine Findings, and Personality Dimensions as Correlates of Suicidal Behavior

Levels of 5HIAA & HVA were measured in the CSF of 62 female inpatients with major depression (n=19), schizophrenic disorder (n=18) & other disorders (n=12). 53 patients received a DST following lumbar puncture & all completed the Marke-Nyman Temperament Scale (H) within 10 days. CSF 5HIAA was significantly lower in patients who had made violent suicide attempts but did not differ between suicide attempters who had taken drug overdoses & nonattempters. (NBB)