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January 08, 2006
Depression And Huntington's Disease
Do you have a loved one who has Huntington's Disease or is at risk? (Of course I do, otherwise why would I be here?)
The outstanding researchers at the University of Iowa interviewed Huntington's Disease patients on the issue of depression. Half reported that they had sought treatment for depression and more than 10% had at least one suicide attempt.The researchers conclude that many HD patients are being adequately treated for depression.
Since there is evidence that anti-depressents not only reduces the chance of suicide but also might slow the progression of Huntington's Disease...Why aren't more people with HD prescribed an anti-depressant?
J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci. 2005 Fall;17(4):496-502.
Depression and stages of Huntington's disease.
Paulsen JS, Nehl C, Hoth KF, Kanz JE, Benjamin M, Conybeare R, McDowell B, Turner B.
University of Iowa, 1-305 Medical Education Building, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA. jane-paulsen@uiowa.edu
Individuals with manifest Huntington's disease (HD) were interviewed with regard to the presence, frequency, and severity of depression symptoms to better characterize depressed mood across the disease course in HD. Rates of depression were more than twice that found in the general population. One-half reported that they had sought treatment for depression, and more than 10% reported having at least one suicide attempt. The proportion of HD patients endorsing significant depression diminished with disease progression. Despite the public health impact of depression, available treatments are underutilized in HD, and research is needed to document the efficacy and effectiveness of standard depression treatments in this population.
PMID: 16387989
Posted by Dave at January 8, 2006 11:58 PM
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