Journal of affective disorders
-
Previous findings in referred samples documented significant diagnostic specificity in patterns of transmission between parents with panic disorder (PD) and parents with major depression (MD) and their offspring. This study evaluated whether these patterns of transmission between parents and high-risk offspring are moderated by referral bias. ⋯ These results extend to non-referred samples previous findings from referred samples documenting diagnostic specificity in the familial transmission of PD/AG and MD from parents to offspring, suggesting that these patterns of transmission are not due to referral bias. These results could inform and enhance community programs aimed at screening for and treating pediatric psychopathology.
-
Comparative Study Clinical Trial
The influence of major depression and its treatment on heart rate variability and pupillary light reflex parameters.
The link between depression and autonomic dysfunction has attracted more attention since epidemiological studies have revealed that depressed patients have an augmented risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Former studies of autonomic dysfunction in major depression have shown inconclusive results. ⋯ The state of depression did not influence autonomic parameters significantly. In fact, treatment influenced autonomic function far more than the disease itself. Other branches of the autonomic nervous system (ANS), as well as new techniques should be applied to elucidate whether small changes in autonomic function exist. This might clarify whether disease or treatment might influence cardiac mortality in depression.