THE DEXAMETHASONE SUPPERSSION TEST IN ENDOGENOUS DEPRESSION4

In 34 patients of endogenous depression and 30 normal controls, the dexamethasone suppression test (DST) had a sensitivity of 67.6%, a specificity of 93.3% and a positive predictive power of 92%, which compares favourably with other diagnostic tests in clinical medicine. DST non-suppressors were significantly more depressed as compared to DST suppressors, had a higher incidence of suicidal attempts and past and family history of depression, needed electroconvulsive therapy more often, but showed a better response to therapy. Though the claim of the DST being a specific biological marker for endogenous depression remains controversial, it is an useful investigative tool for the diagnosis and treatment of endogenous depression.