Screening for depression in primary care with two verbally asked questions: cross sectional study.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the diagnostic accuracy of two verbally asked questions for screening for depression.


METHODS
Cross sectional criterion standard validation study.


METHODS
15 general practices in New Zealand.


METHODS
421 consecutive patients not taking psychotropic drugs.


METHODS
Sensitivity, specificity, and likelihood ratios of the two questions compared with the computerised composite international diagnostic interview.


RESULTS
The two screening questions showed a sensitivity and specificity of 97% (95% confidence interval, 83% to 99%) and 67% (62% to 72%), respectively. The likelihood ratio for a positive test was 2.9 (2.5 to 3.4) and the likelihood ratio for a negative test was 0.05 (0.01 to 0.35). Overall, 37% (157/421) of the patients screened positive for depression.


CONCLUSIONS
Two verbally asked questions for screening for depression would detect most cases of depression in general practice. The questions have the advantage of brevity. As treatment is more likely when doctors make the diagnosis, these questions may have even greater utility.
Arroll
Bruce
B
Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, PB 92019, Auckland, New Zealand. b.arroll@auckland.ac.nz
Khin
Natalie
N
Kerse
Ngaire
N
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000175:diagnosis*; D005194:Family Practice; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008403:Mass Screening / Q000379:methods*; D008875:Middle Aged; D009520:New Zealand