Platelet Imipramine Binding in Intensive Care Unit Suicidal Patients

3H-imipramine binding in relation to serotonergic function was studied in patients hospitalized following a suicide attempt. Comparison with a control group showed a highly significant difference in Bmax values. The results suggest, at least a posteriori, a biological alteration as the basis of suicidal behaviour. Although it is impossible to attribute a suicide attempt to the alteration or to a predisposing pre-existent condition, this biological marker may be useful in evaluating suicidal risk & also short- & long-term prognosis. (16 refs.) JA