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Introduction:Internet addiction (IA) is increasingly becoming a mental health problem in some countries, and its importance has been reflected in the proposal to include it on the upcoming DSM-5. Although IA was described more than 15 years ago, controversy still emerges regarding its existence and classification. Recent studies have shown response to pharmacologic agents in individuals suffering from IA, suggesting a biological substrate. In the last years, studies have shown neurobiological variables to be associated with IA.Objectives:Perform a literature review in search of studies that associate IA with neurobiological variables.Aims:Summarize current knowledge about the neurobiological basis of IA.Methods:We conducted a literature review of empirical research articles from PUBMED, EBSCO and Web of Science, using the keywords Internet addiction, genetics, MRI, EEG, event-related potentials, neurobiology. Articles published from January 2007 to May 2012 were selected on the basis of relevant information contained in the title and/or abstract.Results:We found 26 studies that associated IA with different neurobiological findings. Studies variables and results are summarized in a table format.Conclusions:Recent studies suggest a neurobiological component for IA. Anatomical and functional changes, genetic polymorphisms and impairment of neurotransmitter systems have been found in brains of individuals with IA. The reviewed studies did not evaluate causality. Understanding the neurobiological underpinnings of IA could help dilucidate subjects at risk of having this entity, determine severity of disease, or lead to development of therapeutic alternatives.

IntroductionTuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease whose presentation is dependent on host defenses, whereas neuroimmune disregulations are a feature of major depressive disorder (MDD). There are complex interactions between the immune and nervous systems; Tumor Necrosis Factor alpha (TNF-a) has been shown to play a role in the pathophysiology of both TB and MDD. These diseases are prevalent in Mexico, however there is scant research addressing their comorbidity and related immune mechanisms.ObjectivesEvaluate differences in TNF-a levels and quality of life between subjects with TB and/or MDD.MethodsThirty-seven subjects (MDD = 10, TB = 9, TB + MDD = 8, controls = 10) were recruited. Instruments used were the SCID-I, Beck Depression Inventory, Hamilton Depression Scale and the World Health Organization Quality of Life survey. A blood sample was obtained from each subject to assess percentage of mononuclear cells positive for TNF-a, using an intracellular cytokines assay.ResultsHighest mean levels of TNF-a were found in the comorbid TB + MDD group (X = 10.46, DE = 14.59) while the control group had the lowest levels (X = 3.26, DE = 4.93). However, when comparing all groups, no statistically significant differences were found. Mean quality of life scores were lower in the MDD (X = 65.6, DE = 5.4) and TB + MDD (X = 66.2, DE = 14.5) groups. When comparing all groups, there were significant differences between TB vs. MDD (p = 0.013), TB vs. TB + MDD (p = 0.004) and MDD vs. control (p = 0.0002) groups.ConclusionsNo significant differences across groups were found regarding TNF-a levels, while subjects with MDD and TB + MDD showed a worse quality of life.

Introduction: Internet addiction is becoming a serious mental health problem in some countries, and has been proposed for inclusion in DSM-V. Social network sites (SNS) are proliferating and have attracted millions. However, there has been recent concern about potential abuse of social web, suggesting that "Facebook addiction" could be another subcategory of the spectrum of Internet addiction disorders. Unfortunately, there is sparse data to show whether SNS are of benefit or detriment to mental health. Objectives: 1. Exemplify how excessive use of SNS may lead to dysfunction. 2. Summarize recent knowledge on the impact SNS may have on mental health. Aims: We present a case of a 14-year-old adolescent who was referred to our institution due to excessive Internet/Facebook use, leading to some risky behaviors. Subsequently, we embark on a literature review about outcomes on mental health associated with SNS use. Methods: We conducted a literature review of journal articles from EMBASE, MEDLINE and PSYCINFO, using the keywords "social network", "Facebook" and "addiction". Papers published from 2006 to 2011 were selected on the basis of relevant information contained in the title/abstract. Results: A brief summary of all relevant articles shall be presented in table format. Conclusions: Nowadays Facebook is the most popular SNS, allowing users to real-time interaction and increased socialization, being used for personal, academic or work purposes. Personal information on SNS can be maliciously used by others, and may reflect user's habits, personality traits and psychopathology. Mental health professionals should be aware of Internet addiction disorders.