[Regarding the search for a specific neuropsychological profile in depression: limits and perspectives]

It has long been known that patients with depression show neuropsychological symptoms. A great number of studies aimed at an exact characterization of these symptoms. Scientifically, the knowledge about such a profile was thought to provide information about neurobiological dysfunctions. Clinically, this knowledge would be useful to differentiate depression from other psychiatric or neurological diseases. However, the neuropsychological profile of depression is still not well established. We discuss four perspectives that provide possible explanations for the current state of knowledge and may help to further develop our knowledge about neuropsychological dysfunctions in depression: first, because there is great variation in the aetiology and phenomenology of depression and even in different subtypes of affective disorders, unitary neuropsychological profiles can not be expected. Further research should focus on relevant factors that influence cognitive functioning of depressed patients. Second, neuropsychological tests administered should be specific for certain cognitive functions and, third, should provide emotionally relevant stimuli as well. Finally, future studies should systematically consider psychiatric control groups in addition to healthy participants. With the consideration of these factors, neuropsychological research in depression significantly contributes to our understanding and conceptualization of mental disorders.