Depressive symptoms in chronic kidney disease: A comparison between patients on dialysis versus conservative treatment

Background

Prevalence of depression in chronic kidney disease (CKD) is higher than in the general population and predicts a higher mortality risk. The aim of this study is to investigate the occurrence of depressive symptoms among individuals with CKD in conservative treatment and renal replacement therapy (hemodialysis).

Methods

This is a cross-sectional study conducted at three health centers specialized in CKD care, in Fortaleza-Ceara-Brazil, between June and October 2015. Patients with confirmed diagnosis of CKD were included, in hemodialysis and conservative treatment, older than 18 years. We have applied forms about socio-demographic questionnaire, including questions regarding mental health and the Beck depression inventory.

Results

A total of 147 patients were interviewed, with mean age of 54 ± 16 years, and 61% were males. Regarding treatment, 65.3% were in hemodialysis and 34.6% in conservative treatment. Previous diagnosis of mental disturbance was reported by 12.9% of patients; 29 (19.7%) had follow-up with Psychologist or Psychiatrist; 61 (41.4%) demonstrated interest in having specialized treatment. According to Beck inventory score, 47 (31.9%) patients presented depressive symptoms, being 22 (14.9%) mild, 14 (9.5%) moderate and 7 (4.7%) severe symptoms. Among patients in hemodialysis, 30 (31.2%) had depressive symptoms, while among patients in conservative treatment, the frequency of depressive symptoms was 25.5% (p = 0.2).

Conclusions

There were a significant number of patients with CKD with depressive symptoms, both in conservative treatment and hemodialysis, with no significant difference between these two groups. Further studies are necessary to evaluate the repercussion of depression in clinical outcome, as well as the impact of preventive and treatment measures.