Comorbid Depression in Adult Oncology

Abstract

Depression is a common medical disorder that frequently occurs comorbidly with other medical disorders. Unfortunately, depression often goes unrecognized either due to somatic symptoms, which may be confused with the physical effects of cancer, chemotherapy, and radiation, or due to the belief that depression is a normal part of the cancer diagnosis. A combination of pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy is the most effective treatment for depression in cancer patients. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are the most frequently used antidepressants. Selection of an antidepressant should be based on the patient's symptoms. Recognition and treatment of depressive symptoms in oncology patients is very important, and effective treatment may improve the oncology patients' quality of life and may also affect survival.