Grief review identifies biological associations, with causes still unresolved
Studies of persistent, disruptive grief reported differences in stress hormones and inflammatory signals, but inconsistent definitions and small samples limit their interpretation.
Based on the published abstract. The full paper may contain additional methods, results and limitations.
The 30-second takeaway
Research on prolonged or complicated grief has found altered cortisol patterns, higher oxytocin levels, and changes in inflammatory and immune measures. These are possible biological correlates of grief-related distress, not demonstrated causes. The review does not establish a biochemical test for prolonged grief disorder or show that changing these markers improves symptoms.
The authors report small samples, varied study designs, and inconsistent diagnostic criteria. Longitudinal research is needed to clarify causal mechanisms, so the abstract supports preliminary associations rather than clinical conclusions.
Mapping biological patterns
The review brought together studies measuring grief alongside biological signals. Its focus was on stress-response, attachment-related, and immune pathways, aiming to describe patterns that might help researchers understand persistent grief.
Specificity remains uncertain
The included studies did not consistently use the same diagnostic definitions, and psychiatric conditions occurring alongside grief were not adequately controlled. These issues make it difficult to isolate findings specific to prolonged grief.
The original publication
Grief-Related Psychopathology from Complicated Grief to DSM-5-TR Prolonged Grief Disorder: A Systematic Review of Biochemical Findings.
Pedrinelli V, Rimoldi B, Conti L et al.
Int J Mol Sci · 2025
- PubMed ID
- 41465265
- Record checked
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