DEPRESSION IN PATIENTS WITH HIV AND AIDS

In this paper we review studies of depression in patients with HIV/AID S. Methodological issues of importance in understanding and evaluating depression in this patient population are described, and methodologic al variations between studies, particularly in reference to methods of case detection, diagnostic criteria used and characteristics of the p opulations studied, are identified. The findings reported in the curre nt literature in general are contrary to what would be expected from a n examination of the significant biological and psychosocial stresses of individuals with HIV, and are inconsistent with those of other life -threatening illnesses and CNS diseases. Clear conclusions regarding t he prevalence of depression and its effect in patients with HIV/AIDS c annot yet be made.