Comorbidity Between Recurrent Major Depressive Disorder and CADASIL: A Case Report With a Brief Review of Published...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Psychiatry
• Genetics

Background:

• Cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL) is linked to mood disorders due to its impact on cerebral vasculature and neural networks.
• The coexistence of CADASIL and major depressive disorder (MDD) presents diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of MDD in a patient diagnosed with CADASIL.
• To review existing literature on psychiatric manifestations in CADASIL patients.

Main Methods:

• A case study of a 42-year-old woman with recurrent MDD and suspected CADASIL.
• Clinical assessment including psychiatric evaluation, cranial MRI, and genetic analysis.
• Review of previously reported CADASIL cases with psychiatric symptoms.

Main Results:

• The patient was diagnosed with CADASIL after presenting with atypical depressive symptoms, headaches, and MRI abnormalities.
• A 3-week psychiatric intervention led to significant improvement in both mood and neurological symptoms.
• The patient showed limited tolerance to psychotropic medications.

Conclusions:

• Timely intervention in patients with CADASIL and mood disorders can improve outcomes.
• Continuous monitoring and management are essential as emotional symptoms may persist.
• This case underscores the intricate relationship between vascular brain disease and psychiatric conditions.