Depression is Common, and Undertreated, in PD

Subject: Depression is Common, and Undertreated, in PD

Date: 4/28/2008

PRODEST--Depressive symptoms in Parkinson's disease: Effect of antidepressant treatment on symptoms of depression
P Barone, C Goetz, J Houben, J Koester, A Leentjens, W Poewe, O Rascol, H Reichmann, A Schapira, E Tolosa
P05.145, A287

Depression affects more than a quarter of PD patients, and treatment is not fully effective in many receiving it, according to this study.

Of 1016 cognitively normal PD patients, 284 (28%) were classified with depression, based on medical history, current or prior antidepressant use, and/or scores on standard depression rating scales. Depressed patients were almost equally divided among early and advanced patients. Nine percent had major depressive disorder according to DSM-IV criteria, and 13% had minor depressive disorder. Antidepressant use was reported by 21% of patients; these patients scored higher on UPDRS measures of depression and motivation, pointing to "a possible lack of efficacy," the authors note.

"As baseline data on depressive symptoms...before start of treatment with antidepressants are lacking, one should consider the possibility of more severe depressive symptoms...Considering the findings of antidepressant use in [patients with depression], it can be concluded that these patients are undertreated."

E-MOVE Editor: Richard Robinson, NASW, WE MOVE

Related CME Activities - Valid for AMA PRA Category 1 Credits(s)™