Central monoamine metabolism in depressions. II. Catecholamines and related compounds

Abstract

CA research in depressions is reviewed. The present situation can be outlined as follows:

Vital depressive patients may show central CA disorders that point in the direction of CA deficiency. In principle, this deficiency can be a primary phenomenon or a secondary development: the result of hypersensitivity of postsynaptic CA receptors. The former possibility is considered more plausible than the latter.

The DA disorder seems to be related to motor retardation and loss of initiative and probably plays a role in their pathogenesis. There is no reason to assume that this disorder is a predisposing factor.

The NA disorder is not related to motor symptoms. Its causative significance is still uncertain.

An important byproduct of CA research in depressions is the momentum it gives to attempts to “translate” behavior disorders in terms of disturbed psychological functions. Such a functional psychopathology could be an important supplement to the traditional, more syndromal, and nosological classification of psychiatric conditions.