Depression in schizophrenia: pathophysiological mechanisms and therapeutic approaches

Abstract

Depression is a common phenomenon in the structure of schizophrenia. Depression in schizophrenia is associated with worse disease course, lower quality of life and suicidal behavior. However
the data on the comorbidity of depression and schizophrenia is very variable due to different diagnostic and methodological issues in evaluation of their interactions. In our review we analyzed
the recent data on pathophysiological mechanisms and therapeutic approaches to depression in patients with schizophrenia. According to recent research the main mechanisms of interaction
between depression and psychotic disorders are inflammatory process and complex hormonal/metabolic disturbances. Due to the lack of evidenceNbased data on antidepressant treatment
efficacy, one of the key aims of the therapy of depression in schizophrenia is the choice of antipsychotic with significant antidepressant potential but with minimal risks of metabolic sideNeffects.