Skin conductance levels in panic disorder and depression.

Skin conductance level (SCL) was measured in 63 subjects with panic disorder, 21 of whom had major depression. Some evidence was found for low SCL being associated with depression, as has been recorded in depression without panic. The standard deviation of SCL was high and it is suggested that the etiology of depression in panic is different from primary depression, at least for some patients. High SCL was not associated with severity of illness. Recordings made in the usual small, isolated, sound-attenuated environment were compared with those made in a larger room with an investigator present for 10 patients and 10 normal controls. Lower SCLs were found in the larger room.