Comorbidity rates do not support distinction between panic disorder and generalized anxiety disorder.

Groups of patients with principal diagnosis of panic disorder (n = 54) and generalized anxiety disorder (n = 49) were compared on the basis of their comorbidity with other mental disorders. The rates and patterns of comorbidity were similar, except for comorbid simple phobia and past drug abuse. This finding was interpreted as failing to support a notion that there is essential distinction between panic disorder and generalized anxiety disorder.