Palliative management of depression in advanced cancer

Patients with advanced cancer are often psychologically distressed. Some are depressed, and others might not fit neatly into diagnostic categories. Yet, their suffering is real and worthy of attention.

This article outlines the evidence-based management of depression in patients with advanced cancer.

Throughout this article, the term depression is used loosely, and an approach to patients who might not strictly meet diagnostic criteria is included. The limits of the evidence are emphasised in the hope that general practitioners will feel confident to rely on their own clinical judgement and intimate knowledge of their patients to manage their depression.