Description of Profile of Patients with Epilepsy Attended in a Tertiary Service and Presence of Depressive Symptoms

Descrição do Perfil de Pacientes com Epilepsia Atendidos em um Serviço Terciário e Presença de Sintomas Depressivos

Resumo

OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to understand the prevalence of depressive symptoms among epilepsy patients, identify demographic and clinical factors associated with higher prevalence. Additionally, the study aims to underscore the concerning statistic that a significant portion of patients with depressive symptoms are not receiving appropriate treatment with antidepressants.

METHODS: Data on demographics and medication use, and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II) scores were collected. A total of 73 patients participated, and both quantitative and qualitative analyses were performed.

RESULTS: In our study, 64.38% had a prevalence of depressive symptoms. This confirms existing literature that identifies depression as a frequent comorbidity in epilepsy patients. Data analysis revealed that depressive symptoms were more prevalent in female patients, those with generalized onset seizures, recent diagnoses, and those using multiple anti-seizure medications. The study emphasizes the importance of addressing newly diagnosed epilepsy patients regarding their condition, prognosis, and treatment to mitigate mood-related symptoms associated with the diagnosis. Alarmingly, only 23.39% of patients with depressive symptoms were receiving treatment with antidepressants.

CONCLUSIONS: Regular screening for depressive symptoms using validated instruments, such as the BDI-II, is crucial. Prompt treatment can improve symptom control for both epilepsy and depression, and patients should be referred to multidisciplinary teams.