Prevalence of Depression in Epileptic Patients.

ABSTRACT

Objectives: To determine the prevalence of depression among epileptic patients attending the outdoor patient department of Psychiatry department of G.G.S. Medical College, Faridkot. Material and Methods: Total 100 consecutive epileptic patients were included in study , these patients were screened with ICD-10 diagnostic criteria of depression and were interviewed. Demographic data that affect depression were evaluated. Results: During the study of 100 patients, prevalence of depression was 25%. Mild depression was found in 67% and moderate in 33%. No patient had severe depression . Comparing between male and female patients, there was no statistical significant diference (P>0.05). The age group that compared between age equal or less than 25 years and more than 25 years had no statistical significant difference (P>0.05). Other variables were not found to be significant risk factors of depression among epileptic patients including duration of seizures [Equal or less than 5 and more than 5 per year (P>0.05)] and number of antiepileptic drugs [monotherapy and polytherapy (P>0.05)]. Type of seizures [ Generalized tonic clonic seizures and Partial seizures had statistical significant difference ( P<0.05)]. Conclusion: Prevalence of depression among epileptic patients was 25%, divided between mild (67%) and moderate (33%) . Epileptics should be aware of this and seek prompt treatment for depression.