Objectives:This study was conducted to investigate the clinical characteristics of schizophrenic patients with depressive symptoms, which has been neglected despite its high prevalence.
Methods:The subjects consisted of 74 schizophrenic in-patients meeting the DSM-IV criteria. The relationships were evaluated between demographic factors and depressive symptoms assessed by the BDI (Beck Depression Inventory). Also, the relationships were analyzed between clinical characteristics and depressive symptoms assessed by the HAM-D (Hamilton Depression Rating Scale) and the CDSS (Calgary Depression Scale for Schizophrenia).
Results:The BDI score was significantly higher as age increased and education level decreased. The BDI score was also found to be significantly higher among the patients whose economic status was low, who resided in the rural area, and who experienced divorced or bereavement. The HAM-D and the CDSS scores were significantly higher as the GAF score decreased. The HAM-D and the CDSS scores were significantly higher in proportion to awareness of illness assessed by the SUMD (Scale for Unawareness of Mental Disorder).
Conclusion:This study revealed that the schizophrenic patients with depressive symptoms had the following clinical characteristics: older age, lower educational and economic levels, rural residents, divorce or bereavement experience, lower global functional level, and higher insight of the illness. (Schizophrenia Clinics 2004;7:23-28) |
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