[Major depression in the child: validation of the syndrome and pharmacologic treatment]

The concept of childhood depression has been the object of controversies over many years. Recent developments have permitted rapid progress in many areas of research. The author offers an update on the validity of the diagnosis of major depression in childhood and on pharmacological treatment. He then attempts to delineate the uses and limitations of this therapeutic approach. In the latter part, practical advice on the use of drugs in childhood depression is given.