Simultaneous major depression and panic disorder appears to be a common
occurrence in psychiatric patients. Patients with this condition present
with more severe symptoms than patients with major depression only, respond
less well to conventional antidepressants, and in general exhibit greater
psychopathology over the course of their illness. Evidence suggesting a
possible "dual diathesis," depression and panic, in these patients is
reviewed from epidemiological, clinical, and biological perspectives. The
importance of taking into account the combined symptoms in treatment
planning and physiopathological studies is discussed.Abstract Teaser