Commentary

Evaluation of major depression in a routine clinical assessment

Marco André Urbach Mezzasalma

Laboratory of Panic and Respiration, Institute of Psychiatry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), INCT Translacional Medicine, Brazil

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Diabetology & Metabolic Syndrome 2010, 2:9doi:10.1186/1758-5996-2-9

Published:	28 January 2010

Abstract

Background

Major depression is a disorder that significantly worsens a patient's morbidity and mortality. The association of depression and diabetes is well documented and has clinical impact in diabetes treatment's outcome. Patients usually aren't evaluated initially by a psychiatrist, so it is important that non-psychiatrists learn to evaluate major depression and its impact.

Conclusions

Major depression can and should be evaluated on a routine clinical assessment. Depression's impact on the patients' quality of life, productivity and social interactions is well documented. The initial diagnosis of depression should lead to its prompt treatment, and it has to be emphasized that the incorrect treatment can lead to worsening of the condition, relapses, recurrences or even chronification of major depression.