THE DIAGNOSIS OF DEPRESSION IN PATIENTS WITH DEMENTIA - USE OF THE CAMBRIDGE MENTAL-DISORDERS OF THE ELDERLY EXAMINATION (CAMDEX)

The prevalence of depression in 80 well-diagnosed demented patients was examined using the Cambridge Mental Disorders of the Elderly Examination (CAMDEX) based on information from patients, caregivers and professionals. The overall prevalence of DSM-III-R major depressive illness was 5%, but the identification of depressed patients and the prevalence rate varied with the source of information used. The symptom profiles of the patients were examined in more detail. The significance of these findings and the use of operational diagnostic criteria in the investigation of coexistent depression and dementia are discussed.