Journal of affective disorders
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Major depressive disorder (MDD) is associated with altered neural activity in the default mode network (DMN). In the present study, we used a fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (fALFF) approach to directly investigate the features of spontaneous brain activity of the DMN in patients with the first-episode, drug-naive MDD at rest. ⋯ Our results first suggested that there was a dissociation pattern of resting-state fALFF in the DMN in patient with MDD, which highlighted the importance of the DMN in the pathogenesis of MDD.
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The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is dysfunctional in a subgroup of mood disorders. ⋯ Feedback inhibition of ACTH secretion by cortisol is compromised in MDD, and this is independent of an age effect on the HPA axis function.
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Lithium is recommended as a first-line treatment for Bipolar Disorder (BD). Thyroid and renal alterations are well known lithium side-effects, while effects on parathyroids are less studied. The aim of this case-control cross-sectional study is to compare parathyroid hormone (PTH) and calcium levels in lithium-exposed bipolar patients and in subjects who had never been exposed to lithium. ⋯ Our results indicate that lithium-associated stimulation of parathyroid function is more common than assumed to date. Among parameters to be evaluated prior to lithium implementation and during long-term lithium maintenance, calcium (and eventually PTH) should be added.
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Suicide is the third leading cause of death in the United States for youth 12-17 years or age. Acute psychiatric hospitalization represents a clear worst point clinically and acute suicide risk is the most common reason for psychiatric admission. We sought to determine factors associated with differences in individual suicide risk assessment for children and adolescents during acute psychiatric admission. ⋯ Systematic administration of a suicide-specific measure at admission may help clinicians improve identification of suicide risk factors in youth in inpatient psychiatry settings.
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The presence of a comorbid borderline personality disorder (BPD) may be associated with an increase of suicidal behaviors in patients with depressive and anxiety disorders. The aim of this study is to examine the role of borderline personality traits on recurrent suicide attempts. ⋯ Persons with a lifetime diagnosis of dysthymia combined with borderline personality traits especially difficulties in coping with anger seemed to be at high risk for recurrent suicide attempts. For clinical practice, it is recommended to screen for comorbid borderline personality traits and to strengthen the patient's coping skills with regard to anger.