Neuropsychological profiles and short-term outcome in late-onset depression.
OBJECTIVE
Neuropsychological impairments are common in older persons with late-onset depression. This study examined the relationship between neuropsychological profiles and short-term outcome in late-onset depression.


METHODS
A total of 54 non-demented Chinese elders presented with their first major depressive episode after 60 years of age participated in this study and were treated according to a standardised protocol. At entry, they were assessed on neurological signs (Parkinsonian features and neurological soft signs) and neuropsychological measures (executive function, psychomotor-speed, attention and working memory, episodic memory, conceptualisation, construction and global cognitive function). The Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D) was administered at baseline, the sixth and 12th week of treatment.


RESULTS
Abnormal fist-edge-palm (FEP) test, a sign reflecting impairment in motor sequencing, was more common in non-remitters (defined as HAM-D score above 7) at the 12th week of treatment.


CONCLUSIONS
The FEP test may be included in the clinical assessment for patients with late-onset depression to identify a susceptible group who may require more intensive treatment. Further research is warranted to ascertain the link between late-onset depression, neuropsychological deficits and prognosis.
Chui
William W H
WW
Castle Peak Hospital, Hong Kong SAR, Hong Kong. cwh687@ha.org.hk
Cheung
Eric F C
EF
Lam
Linda C W
LC
D017668:Age of Onset; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001288:Attention / Q000502:physiology; D003071:Cognition / Q000502:physiology; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000523:psychology; D056344:Executive Function / Q000502:physiology; D005260:Female; D006723:Hong Kong; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008568:Memory / Q000502:physiology; D010300:Parkinson Disease / Q000503:physiopathology; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; D011597:Psychomotor Performance / Q000502:physiology; D012720:Severity of Illness Index