ABSTRACT

Depression is common among people with multiple sclerosis (MS). The 12-month prevalence of major depressive disorder is twice that seen in the general population. This chapter reviews potential explanations for this increased prevalence, including MS pathogenic factors such as inammation; lesion volume in speci„c frontal, temporal, and/or parietal brain regions; genetic predisposition; and psychosocial factors. This chapter also discusses issues in diagnosis and screening of depression in MS. Finally, trials examining the ef„- cacy of pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy for the treatment of depression in MS are reviewed. After reading this chapter, you will be able to:

CONTENTS

10.1 What Is Depression? ..........................................................................................................228 10.2 Epidemiology of Depression in MS .................................................................................229 10.3 Pathogenesis of Depression in MS ..................................................................................229