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Seasonal variations in the dexamethasone suppression test
C Swade1, M Metcalfe, A Coppen
1MRC Neuropsychiatry Laboratory, West Park Hospital, Epsom, U.K.
Journal of Affective Disorders
|July 1, 1987
Summary
Major depressive disorder patients showed lower plasma cortisol levels after the dexamethasone suppression test during winter months. This seasonal variation in cortisol suppression suggests potential links between depression and seasonal changes.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Endocrinology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a prevalent mood disorder.
- The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is often dysregulated in MDD.
- Seasonal variations in mood disorders are recognized, but underlying biological mechanisms require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of seasonal changes on the dexamethasone suppression test (DST) in patients with MDD.
- To assess plasma cortisol concentrations following dexamethasone administration across different times of the year.
Main Methods:
- One hundred fifty-six patients diagnosed with major depressive disorder participated.
- Patients were recruited from Epsom (U.K.) and Brussels.
- The dexamethasone suppression test was administered, and post-dexamethasone plasma cortisol levels were measured.
Main Results:
- A significant reduction in post-dexamethasone plasma cortisol concentrations was observed during winter months (November to February).
- Cortisol levels were markedly lower in winter compared to the rest of the year.
- This finding indicates a seasonal pattern in HPA axis suppression response.
Conclusions:
- Seasonal variations influence the dexamethasone suppression test results in major depressive disorder.
- Lower cortisol suppression in winter may be linked to the pathophysiology of depression during this period.
- Further research is warranted to explore the implications of these seasonal HPA axis changes in MDD.