[Panic attacks and panic disorder. Checklist for the diagnosis].

After looking for possible organic factors, other psychiatric disorders must be considered, e.g. depression or other anxiety disorders. With respect of the different neurobiologic and psychologic factors of panic attacks the therapy should be complex. Psychotherapy (e.g. behavior therapy) and psychopharmacologic treatments were proved very well. For the general practitioner the treatment with SSRI is very helpful. This approach provides a 60% full remission. For an uncomplicated disorder prophylactic treatment is necessary.