Cytokine profiles in women with different subtypes of major depressive disorder

Abstract Background Depression has been associated with activation of the immune system. Some studies have shown increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD), but conflicting results also have been described. Methods Forty-six unmedicated women with MDD were classified in subgroups (melancholic vs. non-melancholic; acute vs. chronic; severe vs. moderate, and episodic vs. recurrent presentations) and compared with 41 healthy controls. Evaluations of serum IL-1β, IL-6, IFN-γ and cortisol were performed on both groups. Patients were evaluated prior and after antidepressant treatment. Results The sub-classification of depression did not predict differences in cytokine levels. Patients currently depressed had similar levels of cytokines and cortisol as healthy controls. After remission of the symptoms, patients with MDD evolved with enhancement of cytokine levels, but no differences were observed in cortisol levels. Limitations In patient treatment, two different classes of antidepressants were applied. The dexamethasone/CRH test was not performed to evaluate the HPA axis. Conclusions Out-patient women diagnosed with MDD exhibited normal levels of both cortisol and cytokines before treatment, yet demonstrated an increase in cytokines after antidepressant treatment. In some patients with MDD, the presence of acute stress due to hospitalization may indeed contribute and justify the usual finding of higher levels in both cortisol and cytokines.