Agoraphobia

Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder characterized by intense fear or avoidance of situations where escape may be difficult, including crowded places, open spaces, or travel. Etiology involves a combination of genetic predisposition, cognitive biases toward threat, and dysregulation of fear circuits in the amygdala and prefrontal cortex. Clinically, patients experience anticipatory anxiety, panic attacks, and avoidance behaviors that severely limit social, occupational, or daily functioning. Diagnosis is based on clinical assessment, with careful differentiation from panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, or specific phobias. Management includes cognitive-behavioral therapy with exposure-based interventions, pharmacotherapy with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, and supportive strategies to enhance functional independence. Prognosis is variable, with outcomes improved by early intervention and adherence to therapy.