In this study mean 4 p.m. cortisol levels were significantly higher in
patients with major depression than in control subjects or in patients with
bipolar depression or dysthymic-related disorders. Moreover, the
distribution of values differed significantly among groups. Eighteen of 45
patients with major depression had cortisol levels of 10 micrograms/dl or
more, compared with 2 of 20 bipolar depressed patients and 0 of 31
controls. Patients with very high cortisol levels (15 micrograms/dl or
more) tended to fulfill criteria for major depression with mood-congruent
psychosis. The distribution of values in the major depression group also
suggested the existence of three major subgroups. The authors discuss the
implications of these data.
Abstract Teaser