Margaret Altemus, M.D.

Dr. Margaret Altemus has a longstanding interest in neuropeptide and neurohormonal systems in both normal stress responses and in the pathophysiology of anxiety and affective disorders. She also studies the potential role of these systems in the mechanism in action of antidepressant and anti-anxiety medications. Methods for investigating these relationships include measures of gene expression and endocrine, physiological, and behavioral measures. Studies are conducted in healthy humans, patients with anxiety disorders, and in animal models. Dr. Altemus has several studies currently in progress and enrolling new subjects. 1) A study of the effects of pregnancy and lactation on the course of anxiety disorders; 2) a treatment study to test whether an androgen hormone blocker can relieve the symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder; and 3) a treatment study to test whether an adrenergic receptor blocker can relieve the symptoms of PTSD.

Degree

MD

Title

Associate Professor, Weill Medical College of Cornell University

Clinical Appointments/Hospital Affiliation

Associate Attending Psychiatrist, New York Presbyterian Hospital-Weill Cornell Medical Center

Description of Practice/Services Offered

Psychopharmacology, Consultation

Areas of Research

Neuroendocrinoology, PMS, pregnancy, lactation, stress, immune system

Professional Education


- Senior Staff Fellow, Intramural Research Program, National Institute of Mental Health 1988-1996

- National Research Service Award, Yale University 1987-1988

- Psychiatry Residency, Yale University Medical School 1983-1987

- Georgetown University Medical School 1979-1983

Credentials/Board Certification

American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology 1988

Publications

  1. - Altemus M., Fong J., Yang R., Damast S., Luine V., Ferguson D., Jacobson K.. "Changes in cerebrospinal fluid neurochemistry during pregnancy." Biological Psychiatry. vol.56 (2004): 386-392.
  2. Altemus M., Dhabhar F., Cloitre M. "Enhanced cell-mediated immunity in adult women with PTSD related to childhood abuse." American Journal of Psychiatry vol.160 (2003): 1705-1707.
  3. Altemus, M., Rao, B., Dhabhar, F., Ding, W., Granstein, R. "Stress-induced Changes in Skin Barrier Function in Healthy Women." J Invest Dermatol. vol.117 (2001): 309-317.
  4. Altemus, M., Roca, C., Romanos, C., Deuster, P. "Increased Vasopressin and ACTH Responses to Stress in the Mid-luteal Phase of the Menstrual Cycle." J Clin Endocrinol Metab. vol.86 (2001): 2525-2530.
  5. Altemus, M., Redwine, L.S., Leong, Y.M., Porges, S.W., Carter, C.S. "Responses to Laboratory Psychosocial Stress in Postpartum Women. Psychosom Med. vol.63 (2001): 814-821.

_ Contact_____________________________________________________________________

 1044 Madison Avenue, PH2

 New York, NY 10075

 

 www.cornellphysicians.com/margaretaltemus/index.html

 Appointment Scheduling: Call

Office Hours:

  • Monday: 8-6
  • Tuesday: 8-6
  • Wednesday: 8-6
  • Thursday: 8-6
  • Friday: 8-6

Insurances Accepted/Managed Care Accepted: None