Dysthymic Disorder

Question 0

What is the life time prevalence of dysthymia?

Answer 0

6%

Question 1

What is dysthymic disorder?

Answer 1

A mild, chronic form of major depression.

Question 2

What age group is most at risk for developing dysthymia?

Answer 2

Patients younger than 25, although women aged 65 or younger are at increased risk.

Question 3

Are there any gender disparities in the incidence of dysthymia?

Answer 3

Yes. It is two to three times more common in women.

Question 4

What percentage of patients with dysthymia will develop BD or major depression?

Answer 4

Less than 5% will develop BD I and 20% will develop MDD.

Question 5

What is the endocrine disorder most commonly associated with depressive symptoms?

Answer 5

Hypothyroidism.

Question 6

What type of cancers can manifest with depressive symptoms?

Answer 6

Pancreatic and oropharyngeal carcinomas.

Question 7

What is clycothymic disease?

Answer 7

Chronic fluctuating episodes of mild depression and hypomania lasting a variable amount of time.

Question 8

What is the lifetime prevalence of cyclothymia?

Answer 8

Less than 1%

Question 9

What age group is the most at risk for cyclothymia?

Answer 9

Young adults (aged 15-25).

Question 10

What is the diagnostic criteria?

Answer 10

Chronically depressed mood most of the time for a minimum of two years. At least 2 of the following: poor concentration, hopelessness, change in appetite, change in sleep, fatigue, low self-esteem. During 2 year period: no symptom free period more than 2 months. No major depressive episode.

Question 11

What is meant by the term “double depression?”

Answer 11

Major depressive episodes occurring in conjunction with dysthymia.

Question 12

What is the diagnostic criteria for cyclothymic disorder?

Answer 12

Numerous periods with hypomanic symptoms and periods with depressive symptoms for at least 2 years. No symptom free period for more than 2 months during those 2 years, and no history of major depressive episode or manic episode.

Question 13

What is the differential diagnosis for dysthymia?

Answer 13

Major depression, mood disorder due to a general medical condition, and substance-induced mood disorder.

Question 14

How long after the onset of substance use do mood disorder symptoms appear in a substance-induced mood disorder?

Answer 14

Within 1 month of substance intoxication or withdrawal.

Question 15

What is the most effective treatment for dysthymia?

Answer 15

Therapy (psychotherapy or cognitive therapy) in conjunction with antidepressant medications.