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dysthymia

A mood disorder characterized by depressed mood & loss of interest or pleasure in customary activities, with some additional signs & symptoms of depression, that is present most of the time for at least 2 years. Many patients with dysthymia go on to develop major depressive episodes. Diagnostic criteria: DSM IV 1) depressed mood most of the time for at least 2 years 2) presence , while depressed of 2 or more of the following: a) poor appetite or overeating b) insomnia or hypersomnia c) low energy or fatigue d) low self-esteem e) poor concentration of difficulty making decisions f) feelings of hopelessness 3) during a 2 year period, never without symptoms for more than 2 months 4) symptoms not due to physiological effects of substance or medical condition 5) symptoms cause disruption in important areas of function Epidemiology: 2% of elderly

Related

depression major depression

General

mood disorder sign/symptom

References

  1. Diagnostic & Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV)
  2. Medical Knowledge Self Assessment Program (MKSAP) 19 Board Basics. An Enhancement to MKSAP19. American College of Physicians, Philadelphia 2022
  3. Devanand DP. Dysthymic disorder in the elderly population. Int Psychogeriatr. 2014 Jan;26(1):39-48. PMID: 24152873 Review.
  4. Ishizaki J, Mimura M. Dysthymia and apathy: diagnosis and treatment. Depress Res Treat. 2011;2011:893905. doi: 10.1155/2011/893905. Epub 2011 Jun 27. PMID: 21747995 PMCID: PMC3130974 Free PMC article.