Tanya A. Zielinski, MD; E. Sherwood Brown, PhD, MD; Vicki A. Nejtek, PhD; David A. Khan, MD; Jacob J. Moore, BS; and A. John Rush, MD
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Background: Asthma and depression are both
common illnesses. Data suggest that the prevalence of asthma and
asthma-related morbidity and mortality has increased in the past
2 decades. Asthma has long been considered an illness in which
mood and emotions contribute to symptom exacerbation. Therefore,
we reviewed the recent literature on depression in persons with
asthma.
Data Sources: The MEDLINE (1966-1999) and
PSYCHINFO (1967-1999) databases were used to find
English-language articles on asthma and depression. Search terms
included asthma, depression, dysthymia, and mood.
Data Synthesis: This literature suggests
depressive symptoms are more common in asthma patients than in
the general population and perhaps even more common than in some
other general medical conditions. Depression may be associated
with asthma morbidity and mortality. Limited data suggest the
older tricyclic antidepressants may improve both depression and
asthma symptoms. However, no studies have examined the use of
second-generation antidepressants in asthma patients.
Conclusion: Depressive symptoms are common in
asthma patients. However, the prevalence of depressive disorders
in this population is not well determined. Future studies should
focus on determining the prevalence of major depressive disorder
in this population and the effect of antidepressants on mood and
asthma symptoms.
Prim Care Companion J Clin Psychiatry 2000;2(5):153-158
https://doi.org/10.4088/PCC.v02n0501
© Copyright 2000 Physicians Postgraduate Press, Inc.