[Biological markers in depression]

Identification of biological markers in mental diseases could partly resolve problems associated with their diagnosis, treatment, prognosis and prevention. At present biochemical markers of depression seem to be most promising. Development of research in this area was created by the use of platelets as a readily accessible neurone model and by application of neuroendocrinological dynamic tests. Most ample experience has been assembled so far with the application of the so-called dexamethasone suppression test. The impact of biochemical markers in a disease so frequent and so serious as depression should arouse greater interest of psychiatrists in this so far somewhat omitted area.