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Atypical depression: current status and relevance to melancholia
J W Stewart1, P J McGrath, F M Quitkin
1Department of Therapeutic, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, NY, USA. jws6@columbia.edu
Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica. Supplementum
|February 7, 2007
Summary
Depression with atypical features is a valid diagnosis according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV). However, this patient group is heterogeneous, suggesting further criteria may refine diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV) introduced atypical features as a specifier for major depression and dysthymia.
- The validity of this specifier and its relationship with melancholic depression require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review literature supporting the validity of atypical depression.
- To examine the relationship between atypical depression and melancholia.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review on the validity of atypical depression.
- Inclusion of previously unpublished data from the authors.
Main Results:
- Evidence supports the discriminant validity of atypical depression compared to melancholia and other depressive disorders.
- Illness course studies indicate that current criteria for atypical depression encompass a heterogeneous patient population.
Conclusions:
- The DSM-IV criteria for atypical depression identify a valid diagnostic category.
- Atypical depression represents a heterogeneous disorder, necessitating refinement of diagnostic criteria for greater homogeneity.
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