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Major depression with psychotic features - Overview

Alternative Names

Psychotic depression; Delusional depression

Definition of Major depression with psychotic features:

Major depression with psychotic features is a condition in which a person experiences depression along with reduced contact with reality (psychosis). This can take the form of false beliefs (delusions) or seeing or hearing something that isn't really there (hallucinations).

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Although there are no obvious risk factors, a family history of depression or psychotic illness increases the chances of developing this condition.

Forms of depression

Reviewed last on: 1/15/2009
Christos Ballas, MD, Attending Psychiatrist, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Jarema M. Atypical antipsychotics in the treatment of mood disorders. Curr Opin Psychiatry. 2007;20:23-29.

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