Posted by desolationrower on November 28, 2008, at 21:16:12
In reply to Ect for melancholic depression: concerns, posted by Nadezda on November 28, 2008, at 13:30:22
> There have been discussions of ECT here, and I personally am strongly concerned about the adverse effects. I personally wouldn't have it, at least in any circumstance that I've experienced, including severe depression, because of the importance to me of cognitive functioning.
>
> I have a relative, however, who is undergoing a very severe period of melancholic depression, also with some extremely persistent delusions that may prove life-threatening, unless she receives some effective treatment.
>
> Her doctors, whom I don't particularly trust, recommend ECT. However, my pdoc, whom I do trust, thinks ECT is by far the best treatment in certain cases, among which would be my relative.
>
> I'm wondering if anyone has any knowledge about the distinctions between different types of depression, and response to ECT, particularly cognitive problems. Also, there seems to be so much controversy about long-term vs. short-term side effects-- Has anyone looked carefully at Sackheim's study? Anyone have any references that might be helpful?
>
> thanks,
>
> NadezdaWell one thing is unilateral is less likely to cause cog. problems than bilateral, make sure it isn't sine wave, and ultrabrief stimulus. I think older techniques are still used though, so i'd want to know that.
endogenous depression w/psychomotor retardation, delusions, is indicative of better response
is this the study you talk about? the fulltext is free here http://www.nature.com/npp/journal/v32/n1/full/1301180a.html
-d/r
poster:desolationrower
thread:865604
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20081123/msgs/865668.html