Approaches to the identification and management of depression in people living with chronic kidney disease: A scoping review of 860 papers

Abstract

Background

Depression is prevalent across the spectrum of Chronic Kidney Disease and associated with poorer outcomes. There is limited evidence regarding the most effective interventions and care pathways for depression in Chronic Kidney Disease.

Objectives

To investigate how depression is identified and managed in adults with Chronic Kidney Disease.

Design

Scoping review.

Methods

Systematic search of eight databases with pre-defined inclusion criteria. Data relevant to the identification and/or management of depression in adults with Chronic Kidney Disease were extracted.

Results

Of 2147 articles identified, 860 were included. Depression was most identified using self-report screening tools (n = 716 studies, 85.3%), with versions of the Beck Depression Inventory (n = 283, 33.7%) being the most common. A total of 123 studies included data on the management of depression, with nonpharmacological interventions being more frequently studied (n = 55, 45%). Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (n = 15) was the most common nonpharmacological intervention, which was found to have a significant effect on depressive symptoms compared to controls (n = 10). However, how such approaches could be implemented as part of routine care was not clear. There was limited evidence for antidepressants use in people with Chronic Kidney Disease albeit in a limited number of studies.

Conclusions

Depression is commonly identified using validated screening tools albeit differences exist in reporting practices. Evidence regarding the management of depression is mixed and requires better-quality trials of both pharmacological and nonpharmacological approaches. Understanding which clinical care pathways are used and their evidence, may help facilitate the development of kidney care specific guidelines for the identification and management of depression.