PATTERN OF DELUSIONS AND THEIR RELATIONSHIP TO EVERITY OF DEPRESSION IN MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a common psychiatric illness. In MDD, psychotic features like delusions and/or, hallucinations are found in 12.5% - 66% of patients. Relationship between delusions and depression in Major depressive disorder has been a subject of research since many years yielding conflicting results. In this background the present study was designed to assess the pattern of delusions (severity, number and types) in Major depressive disorder and its relationship to depression in Indian patients. Thirty five patients fulfilling DSM-IVTR criteria for Major depressive disorder with delusions were selected. Delusions were typed using SADS (Schedule for Affective Disorder and Schizophrenia) and severity of delusions was assessed using DRS (Delusion rating scale) of SADS. Severity of depression was assessed using HAM-D (Hamilton Depression rating scale). Relationship between number and severity of depression was assessed. Majority of patients had persecutory delusion. Majority also had two to four delusions. Patients who had severe depression also had more severe delusions. Patients of Major depressive disorder with delusions have multiple delusions. Certain delusions are associated with more severity. Delusions are associated with severe depression. Severe delusions seem to be associated with severe depression