among those whose profile suggests increased risk,
such as those with a family or personal history of depression, multiple medical problems, unexplained
physical symptoms, chronic pain, or use of medical
services that is more frequent than expected.18-21
Many
validated case-finding instruments can be used to detect depression among patients in primary care,22
including two simple questions about depressed mood
and anhedonia (Fig. 1).23
Since this method has a sensitivity of 96 percent but a specificity of only 57 percent, additional questions are needed to confirm the
diagnosis of depression (Fig. 1).
Some symptoms of depression can be confused with
those of other medical illnesses. For example, weight
loss and fatigue may also be associated with disorders
such as diabetes, cancer, and thyroid disease. The history and physical examination should guide any further diagnostic workup. Since depression is a clinical
diagnosis, no routine laboratory tests are necessary,
although measurement of serum thyroid-stimulating
hormone is indicated for women more than 65 years
of age and for patients with additional signs or symptoms of hypothyroidism.24
The use of benzodiazepines
and narcotics is associated with depression, but few
nonpsychotropic medications, except for glucocorticoids and reserpine, cause depressive symptoms.25
Beta-blockers do not cause depression.26
ASSESSMENT OF THE RISK OF SUICIDE
Depressed patients frequently contemplate suicide