Depression in Patients With Chronic Renal Disease: Where Are We Going?

Document Type

Journal Article

Publication Date

1-1-2008

Journal

Journal of Renal Nutrition

Volume

18

Issue

1

DOI

10.1053/j.jrn.2007.10.020

Abstract

Depression is quite prevalent in the end-stage renal disease (ESRD) population, with rates as high as 30% in some dialysis centers. There are fewer data on the epidemiology of depression in patients with earlier stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD), but the disease burden may be just as high. Depression may be associated with worse medical outcomes, including increased mortality. Close attention to screening and treating depression in all patients may be necessary. Several instruments have been used to screen for depression. The most common validated depression screening measure in ESRD patients is the Beck Depression Inventory. There are limited data on the appropriate therapy for depression in CKD patients. Psychotherapy combined with antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, may be the optimal form of therapy (always in close consultation with mental health professionals). Adverse effects of antidepressant medications should be considered before prescribing these agents, particularly in patients with reduced glomerular filtration rate. Additional studies are necessary to further evaluate the optimal methods to screen for and treat depression in patients with CKD. © 2008 National Kidney Foundation, Inc.

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS