Depression in cancer patients: a critical review

doi:10.1186/1745-0179-3-2

Clinical Practice and Epidemiology in Mental Health

Volume 3

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Depression in cancer patients: a critical review

Massimo Pasquini¹^,2 and Massimo Biondi¹

¹Department of Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine, University "La Sapienza" of Rome, Italy

²Dipartimento di Scienze Psichiatriche e Medicina Psicologica. Viale dell'Università 30 – Roma, 00185, Italia

Clinical Practice and Epidemiology in Mental Health 2007, 3:2doi:10.1186/1745-0179-3-2


Published:	8 February 2007

Abstract

Cancer patients experience several stressors and emotional upheavals. Fear of death, interruption of life plans, changes in body image and self-esteem, changes in social role and lifestyle are all important issues to be faced. Moreover, Depressive Disorders may impact the course of the disease and compliance. The cost and prevalence, the impairment caused, and the diagnostic and therapeutic uncertainty surrounding depressive symptoms among cancer patients make these conditions a priority for research. In this article we discuss recent data, focusing on detection of Depressive Disorders, biological correlates, treatments and unmet needs of depressed cancer patients.