Objective: This study aimed to verify a possible correlation between panic symptoms and photosensitivity, not only in panic disorder (PD) but also in the panic-agoraphobic spectrum. Method:One hundred and sixty-nine healthy and drug-free subjects completed the Structured Clinical Interview for Panic-Agoraphobic Spectrum-Lifetime version (SCI-PAS-Lifetime) and the Photosensitivity Assessment Questionnaire (PAQ). Results:The SCI-PAS-Lifetime total score was positively correlated with the total score of the PAQ photophobia subdimension (r = 0.44; P < 0.001); the SCI-PAS-Lifetime total score was not significantly correlated with the photophilia subdimension. As photophobia increased, we observed significant score increases in all SCI-PAS-Lifetime domains. Bivariate correlation showed higher coefficient correlation between the panic-like symptoms domain and photophobia (r = 0.44; P < 0.001). Conclusions:A high total score in the SCI-PAS-Lifetime, which denotes more typical features of the spectrum, is associated with a higher level of light sensitivity and intolerance toward bright stimuli. This finding reflects clinical evidence that widely documents photophobic behaviours in subjects with PD and the importance of light stimuli exposure during the onset and course of such a disorder. Bright stimulation seems to be relevant both in PD diagnosed according to current DSM criteria and in the entire panic-agoraphobic spectrum, from nuclear elements of the disorder through subclinical states to the normal condition. Clinical Implications· This study confirms clinical evidence and literature data that document photophobic behaviours in subjects with panic disorder (PD), as well as the importance of light stimuli exposure during the onset and course of such a disorder. · The possible presence of panic spectrum elements in patients affected by psychiatric disorders other than PD and their relation to light hypersensitivity suggest the importance of carefully assessing subsyndromic panic symptoms. They may explain seasonal changes in some aspects of the course of evident clinical Axis I disorders. · The relation between light stimulation and panic spectrum elements could have meaningful implications for the course and prognosis of the clinical manifestations, especially with reference to seasonal changes, with significant consequences for clinical remission and maintenance therapy. Limitations· We considered a small sample that was not homogeneously distributed between men and women; photophobia and photophilia scores did not have a Gaussian distribution. · The Photosensitivity Assessment Questionnaire was designed for a Mediterranean population, and its outside test validity and reliability were evaluated in an Italian population only. · Further studies using larger, homogeneous samples are needed to conduct a more in-depth investigation of the relations between spectrum model, nosographic entities of current classification systems, and light sensitivity.

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