Comorbid mental disorders in laryngectomees.

Objectives: This study attempted to determine the prevalence of mental disorders among laryngectomees and to assess the current status of the supplied psychooncological care. Patients and Methods: Patients who were laryngectomized between 1970 and 2001 were recruited at 6 different otolaryngology clinics in the region of Central Germany. 189 interviews were conducted. Structured clinical interviews (SCID) and standardized questionnaires (HADS, KFA) were used to assess patients’ mental health. The past and the current status of received psychotherapeutic care was evaluated. Results: 23% of the patients were diagnosed with mental disorders. The most frequently occurring disorder was alcohol dependency with 8%, followed by affective disorders (7% major depression, 5% minor depression). Only one patient was currently receiving psychotherapeutic or psychiatric treatment. Conclusion: Only a small fraction of the laryngectomy patients suffering from mental illness were receiving appropriate treatment.