Halluzinogen-induzierte Persistierende Wahrnehmungsstörung (HPPD) und Flashback-Phänomene – Differenzialdiagnose und Erklärungsmodelle

Flashbacks are brief visual, mood, and consciousness changes that resemble the effects of hallucinogens, often considered benign or pleasant by users. Hallucinogen persisting perception disorder (HPPD) is a visual perceptual disorder that can persist for months or years and cause severe distress. The prevalence of both flashbacks and HPPD is unknown, but few case reports have been published despite millions of hallucinogen users since the 1960s and 1970s. The exact causes of HPPD remain unclear, and it is considered a puzzling disorder. Different consequences and new therapeutic approaches are discussed in clinical context.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Consistent with the ICD-10 (F16.70) definition "Flashback" is often used to describe brief visual perceptual, mood, and altered states of consciousness effects reminiscent of acute hallucinogen intoxication effects. Many users regard flashback phenomena as benign and even pleasant. HPPD is described in DSM-5 as a visual perceptual disorder, sometimes persisting for months or years causing severe individual distress. The prevalence of flashback and HPPD is unknown. It is considered to be remarkable in view of the relatively few case reports published out of millions of hallucinogen users since the 1960 s and 1970 s. Despite a multitude of etiological and therapeutic approaches the exact pathophysiological mechanisms underlying HPPD remain elusive. At present HPPD appears to be further a DSM-5-genuine but still puzzling disorder. The different consequences including new therapeutic approaches are discussed in clinical context.