vitamin-b-12 and Depressive-Disorder

Nutritional requirements need to be met in order to adapt to pre- and postnatal changes. Our aim was to systematically review the evidence of associations between nutritional biomarkers and psychological distress during pregnancy and in the first postnatal year.. MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Scielo, LILACS, clinicaltrials.gov, International Clinical Trials Registry, Cochrane Library, Scopus and Web of Science databases were searched for articles from inception to 4/15/2016. Studies of maternal nutritional biomarkers in blood (fatty acids/micronutrients/amino acids) and associations with psychological distress (depression/anxiety/stress) were included. Two independent reviewers extracted data based on study designs, participants, outcomes, exposures, and association measures.. There was higher variability between association measures, time and scales of depression and anxiety assessments.. The majority of high-quality studies suggest that lower vitamin D levels may be associated with postpartum depression. However, further evidence is needed for guiding clinical practice on nutritional biomarkers.

Topics: Adult; Anxiety Disorders; Biomarkers; Depression, Postpartum; Depressive Disorder; Female; Folic Acid; Humans; Maternal Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; Micronutrients; Postpartum Period; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Complications; Vitamin B 12; Vitamin D; Vitamin D Deficiency

The prevalence of depression in later life increases with plasma total homocysteine concentration (tHcy). High tHcy accounts for about 15% of prevalent cases, but observational studies are prone to confounding and bias. Genetic association studies are not prone to the same sources of error and offer an opportunity to explore the consistency and external validity of this association.. To determine if tHcy is causally related to depression in later life.. Cross-sectional study (Health in Men Study), systematic review, and meta-analysis. Patients Community sample of 3752 men aged 70 years or older (Health in Men Study).. Fifteen-Item Geriatric Depression Scale and self-reported past or current treatment for depression (Health in Men Study).. In the Health in Men Study, the odds ratio (OR) of prevalent depression increased 4% (OR, 1.04; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.02-1.05) with every unit increase of tHcy (micromoles per liter). The tHcy was 0.19 mg/L higher among participants with the MTHFR C677T TT genotype compared with the CC genotype. The meta-analysis showed that older adults with high tHcy had increased risk of depression (OR, 1.70; 95% CI, 1.38-2.08) and TT carriers were 22% more likely than CC carriers to have current depression or a history of depression (OR, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.01-1.47).. The triangular association between the MTHFR genotype, tHcy, and depression implies that higher concentrations of tHcy increase the risk of depression and that lowering tHcy by 0.19 mg/L could reduce the odds of depression by about 20%. Confirmatory data from sufficiently powered randomized trials of homocysteine-lowering therapy are now required to test if the relationship between tHcy and depression is truly causal.

Topics: Age Factors; Aged; Cohort Studies; Depressive Disorder; Folic Acid; Genetic Predisposition to Disease; Genotype; Homocysteine; Humans; Male; Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase (NADPH2); Odds Ratio; Personality Inventory; Polymorphism, Genetic; Pyridoxine; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Risk Factors; Vitamin B 12

High levels of homocysteine are associated with cerebrovascular disease, monoamine neurotransmitters, and depression of mood. A plausible hypothesis for these associations is that high homocysteine levels cause cerebral vascular disease and neurotransmitter deficiency, which cause depression of mood. The homocysteine depression hypothesis, if true, would mandate inclusions of imaging studies for cerebrovascular disease and measures of homocysteine, folate, and B12 and B6 vitamins in the clinical evaluation of older depressed patients. Longitudinal studies and clinical trials should be designed to challenge the hypothesis.

Topics: Age Factors; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Cardiovascular Diseases; Child; Comorbidity; Depressive Disorder; Female; Folic Acid; Homocysteine; Humans; Hyperhomocysteinemia; Male; Mutation; Neurotransmitter Agents; Stroke; Vitamin B 12; Vitamin B 6

Topics: Depression; Depressive Disorder; Diet; Fatty Acids, Omega-3; Female; Humans; Male; Micronutrients; Nutrition Disorders; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Complications; Vitamin B 12

Folate and vitamin B12 are required both in the methylation of homocysteine to methionine and in the synthesis of S-adenosylmethionine. S-adenosylmethionine is involved in numerous methylation reactions involving proteins, phospholipids, DNA, and neurotransmitter metabolism. Both folate and vitamin B12 deficiency may cause similar neurologic and psychiatric disturbances including depression, dementia, and a demyelinating myelopathy. A current theory proposes that a defect in methylation processes is central to the biochemical basis of the neuropsychiatry of these vitamin deficiencies. Folate deficiency may specifically affect central monoamine metabolism and aggravate depressive disorders. In addition, the neurotoxic effects of homocysteine may also play a role in the neurologic and psychiatric disturbances that are associated with folate and vitamin B12 deficiency.

Topics: Depressive Disorder; Folic Acid; Folic Acid Deficiency; Homocysteine; Humans; Methylation; Multiple Sclerosis; Vitamin B 12; Vitamin B 12 Deficiency

Topics: Aged; Alcoholism; Biological Transport; Central Nervous System; Dementia; Depressive Disorder; Drug Interactions; Ethnicity; Folic Acid; Folic Acid Deficiency; Humans; Intestinal Absorption; Mental Disorders; Neurocognitive Disorders; Neuropsychology; Nutrition Disorders; Vitamin B 12; Vitamin B 12 Deficiency

Observational studies link low folate levels to depressive symptoms and to poor antidepressant medication response. Evidence supports a role for folate in potentiating the effect of antidepressant medications.. This prospective study examines the effects of folic acid+vitamin B12 supplementation and antidepressant medication in a community-based study of older adults with depressive symptoms.. A randomised controlled trial investigated the effectiveness of a medicinal and two behavioural preventive interventions over a two year period. The medicinal intervention compared dietary supplementation of 400 mcg/d folic acid+100 mcg/d vitamin B12 to placebo. Self reported use of antidepressant medication over two years was recorded. Participants were screened for psychological distress using the Kessler Distress 10-Scale (K-10; >15 eligible) and the main outcome measure was change in depressive symptoms on the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) at six weeks, six, 12 and 24 months. Nine hundred adults aged 60-74 years were included in the analysis, of whom 209 (23.2%) reported antidepressant use during the follow-up period.. A mixed model repeated measures analysis of variance for reduction in depressive symptoms found no significant three-way interaction between supplement group and antidepressant use over time on the PHQ-9 [F4, 825.1=0.32, p=0.87]. A small interaction between supplement group and antidepressant use over time was found for K-10 scores (F4, 799.5=2.50, p=0.0414).. There was little evidence for the potentiation of antidepressant medication by folic acid+B12 supplementation on depressive symptomatology. Further research should examine whether effects might be found at higher folic acid dosages or among clinical populations.

Topics: Aged; Antidepressive Agents; Depressive Disorder; Drug Synergism; Drug Therapy, Combination; Female; Folic Acid; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; Surveys and Questionnaires; Treatment Outcome; Vitamin B 12; Vitamins

Patients with coeliac disease living on a gluten-free diet show vitamin deficiency and reduced subjective health status.. To study the biochemical and clinical effects of B vitamin supplementation in adults with longstanding coeliac disease.. In a double blind placebo controlled multicentre trial, 65 coeliac patients (61% women) aged 45-64 years on a strict gluten-free diet for several years were randomized to a daily dose of 0.8 mg folic acid,0.5 mg cyanocobalamin and 3 mg pyridoxine or placebo for 6 months. The outcome measures were psychological general well-being (PGWB) and the plasma total homocysteine (tHcy) level, marker of B vitamin status.. Fifty-seven patients (88%) completed the trial. The tHcy level was baseline median 11.7 micromol/L (7.4-23.0), significantly higher than in matched population controls [10.2 micromol/L (6.7-22.6) (P < 0.01)]. Following vitamin supplementation, tHcy dropped a median of 34% (P < 0.001), accompanied by significant improvement in well-being (P < 0.01), notably Anxiety (P < 0.05) and Depressed Mood (P < 0.05) for patients with poor well-being.. Adults with longstanding coeliac disease taking extra B vitamins for 6 months showed normalized tHcy and significant improvement in general well-being, suggesting that B vitamins should be considered in people advised to follow a gluten-free diet.

Topics: Anxiety; Celiac Disease; Depressive Disorder; Diet, Gluten-Free; Female; Folic Acid; Health Status; Homocysteine; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Pyridoxine; Surveys and Questionnaires; Vitamin B 12; Vitamin B Complex

In the present study, we assessed the relationship between serum folate, vitamin B12, and homocysteine levels and clinical response in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) who had previously failed to respond to open treatment with fluoxetine 20 mg/day and were enrolled in a 4-week, double-blind trial of either (1) fluoxetine dose increase, (2) lithium augmentation of fluoxetine, or (3) desipramine augmentation of fluoxetine.. Fifty-five outpatients (mean +/- SD age = 41.7 +/- 10.6 years; 50.9% women) with MDD as assessed with the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-III-R who were enrolled in the double-blind trial had serum folate, vitamin B12, and homocysteine measurements completed at baseline (prior to fluoxetine treatment initiation). Folate levels were classified as either low (< or = 2.5 ng/mL) or normal. Vitamin B12 levels were classified as either low (< or = 200 pg/mL) or normal. Homocysteine levels were classified as either elevated (> or = 13.2 micromol/L) or normal. With the use of a logistic regression, we then assessed the relationship between (1) low or normal folate levels, (2) normal or low B12 levels, and (3) elevated or normal homocysteine levels and clinical response to double-blind treatment. The study was conducted from November 1992 to January 1999.. Low serum folate levels (chi2=3.626, p =.04), but not elevated homocysteine (p >.05) or low vitamin B12 levels (p >.05), were associated with poorer response to treatment. The response rates for patients with (N = 14) and without (N = 38) low folate levels were 7.1% versus 44.7%, respectively.. Low serum folate levels were found to be associated with further treatment resistance among patients with fluoxetine-resistant MDD.

Topics: Adult; Ambulatory Care; Antidepressive Agents, Tricyclic; Depressive Disorder; Desipramine; Double-Blind Method; Drug Therapy, Combination; Female; Fluoxetine; Folic Acid; Homocysteine; Humans; Lithium; Male; Probability; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors; Treatment Outcome; Vitamin B 12

In the present study, we assessed the relationship between serum folate, vitamin B12, and homocysteine levels on the rate of relapse in outpatients with remitted major depressive disorder (MDD) during a 28-week continuation phase of treatment with fluoxetine.. Seventy-one outpatients (mean +/- SD age = 40.2 +/- 11.1 years; 56.3% women) with MDD (as assessed with the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-III-R) who had remitted and who were enrolled in the continuation phase of treatment with fluoxetine had serum folate, vitamin B12, and homocysteine measurements completed at baseline (prior to acute-phase treatment). Patients were followed for 28 weeks of continued treatment with fluoxetine 40 mg/day to monitor for depressive relapse. Folate levels were classified as either low (< or = 2.5 ng/mL) or normal. Vitamin B12 levels were classified as either low (< or = 200 pg/mL) or normal. Homocysteine levels were classified as either elevated (> or = 13.2 micromol/L) or normal. With the use of separate logistic regressions, we then assessed the relationship between folate, vitamin B12, and homocysteine level status and relapse. The study was conducted from November 1992 to January 1999.. The presence of low serum folate levels (p =.004), but not low B12 (p >.05) or elevated homocysteine levels (p >.05), was associated with relapse during continuation treatment with fluoxetine. The relapse rates for patients with (N = 7) and without (N = 64) low folate levels were 42.9% versus 3.2%, respectively.. Low serum folate levels were found to place patients with remitted MDD at risk for depressive relapse during the continuation phase of treatment with fluoxetine.

Topics: Adult; Ambulatory Care; Depressive Disorder; Drug Administration Schedule; Female; Fluoxetine; Folic Acid; Follow-Up Studies; Homocysteine; Humans; Male; Probability; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; Recurrence; Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors; Treatment Outcome; Vitamin B 12

Associations between vitamin B-12 deficiency and impaired cognitive function and depression have been reported.. A randomized placebo controlled study including 140 individuals with an increased plasma methylmalonic acid (0.40-2.00 micromol/l) not previously treated with vitamin B-12. Cognitive function was assessed by the Cambridge Cognitive Examination (CAMCOG), Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and a 12-words learning test. Symptoms of depression were evaluated by the Major Depression Inventory. The main outcome measure was change in cognitive function and depression score from baseline to follow-up 3 months later.. At baseline 78 (56%) individuals had cognitive impairment judged from the CAMCOG score and 40 (29%) according to the MMSE; 18 (13%) individuals had symptoms of depression. No improvement was found in cognitive function comparing the treatment and placebo group (total CAMCOG score: P = 0.43), nor among individuals with only slightly impaired cognitive function (n = 44, total CAMCOG score: P = 0.42). The treatment group did not improve in depression score as compared to the placebo group (P = 0.18).. The duration of impaired cognitive function was unknown.. A high proportion of individuals with an increased plasma methylmalonic acid had impaired cognitive function, and a rather high prevalence of depression was observed. However, vitamin B-12 treatment did not improve cognitive function or symptoms of depression within the 3-months study period.

Topics: Aged; Cognition Disorders; Depressive Disorder; Female; Humans; Male; Placebos; Severity of Illness Index; Treatment Outcome; Vitamin B 12

The authors examined the relationships between levels of three metabolites (folate, vitamin B12, and homocysteine) and both depressive subtype and response to fluoxetine treatment in depressed patients.. Fluoxetine, 20 mg/day for 8 weeks, was given to 213 outpatients with major depressive disorder. At baseline, depressive subtypes were assessed, and a blood sample was collected from each patient. Serum metabolite levels were assayed. Response to treatment was determined by percentage change in score on the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale.. Subjects with low folate levels were more likely to have melancholic depression and were significantly less likely to respond to fluoxetine. Homocysteine and B12 levels were not associated with depressive subtype or treatment response.. Overall, the results are consistent with findings linking low folate levels to poorer response to antidepressant treatment. Folate levels might be considered in the evaluation of depressed patients who do not respond to antidepressant treatment.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Ambulatory Care; Depressive Disorder; Female; Fluoxetine; Folic Acid; Folic Acid Deficiency; Homocysteine; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; Treatment Outcome; Vitamin B 12; Vitamin B 12 Deficiency

This was a 4-week randomized placebo-controlled double-blind study to assess augmentation of open tricyclic antidepressant treatment with 10 mg each of vitamins B1, B2, and B6 in 14 geriatric inpatients with depression. The active vitamin group demonstrated significantly better B2 and B6 status on enzyme activity coefficients and trends toward greater improvement in scores on ratings of depression and congnitive function, as well as in serum nortriptyline levels compared with placebo-treated subjects (Ss). Without specific supplementation, B12 levels increased in Ss receiving B1/B2/B6 and decreased in placebo Ss. These findings offer preliminary support for further investigation of B complex vitamin augmentation in the treatment of geriatric depression.

Topics: Aged; Cognition Disorders; Depressive Disorder; Drug Therapy, Combination; Female; Folic Acid; Humans; Male; Nortriptyline; Nutritional Status; Psychological Tests; Pyridoxine; Riboflavin; Thiamine; Vitamin B 12; Vitamin B Complex

41 (33%) of 123 patients with acute psychiatric disorders (DSM III diagnosis of major depression or schizophrenia) had borderline or definite folate deficiency (red-cell folate below 200 micrograms/l) and took part in a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of methylfolate, 15 mg daily, for 6 months in addition to standard psychotropic treatment. Among both depressed and schizophrenic patients methylfolate significantly improved clinical and social recovery. The differences in outcome scores between methylfolate and placebo groups became greater with time. These findings add to the evidence implicating disturbances of methylation in the nervous system in the biology of some forms of mental illness.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Depressive Disorder; Double-Blind Method; Erythrocytes; Female; Folic Acid; Folic Acid Deficiency; Humans; Male; Methotrexate; Middle Aged; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Schizophrenia; Vitamin B 12

Depression is a heterogeneous disorder and is thought to develop as a result of complex interactions between genetic and environmental factors. One-carbon metabolism that includes vitamin B12, folic acid, and homocysteine has been investigated in psychiatric disorders like depression. In recent years, vitamin D has also been considered to contribute to psychiatric disorders. In this study, serum levels of folate, vitamin B12, and homocysteine related to one-carbon metabolism and vitamin D were investigated in children and adolescents with depression and to assess possible roles in depression pathogenesis.. The study included 89 children and adolescents with depression (69 female, 20 male; mean age ± SD = 15.08 ± 1.46) and 43 control subjects (31 female, 12 male; mean age ± SD = 14.41 ± 2.32) without any DSM-5 diagnosis. Each subject completed a sociodemographic form, Childhood Depression Inventory, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory 1-2 and measured serum folate, vitamin B12, homocysteine, and 25-OH vitamin D levels.. There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of folate levels (p = .052). In the patient group, the vitamin B12 and vitamin D levels were clearly low (p values for both levels were <.001), while homocysteine levels were found to be remarkably high (p < .001). In addition, there was a negative correlation between depression severity and vitamin B12 and vitamin D, while a positive correlation was found with homocysteine.. The results of the study show that vitamin B12 deficiency or insufficiency and elevated homocysteine may contribute to the etiopathogenesis of depression. Additionally, it was shown that lower vitamin D levels may be associated with depression.. Depression of children and adolescents is associated with the interaction of environmental and genetic factors. Homocysteine, vitamin B12, and folate related to one-carbon metabolism are associated with psychiatric disorders such as depression in adulthood. Vitamin D also contributes to psychiatric disorders pathogenesis. There are not enough studies in the literature about these parameters in children with depression. Low vitamin B12 and vitamin D levels and increased homocysteine levels may play a role in the pathogenesis of depression in children and adolescents. Investigation of vitamin B12, folate, homocysteine, and vitamin D levels are recommended in children and adolescents with depression.

Topics: Adolescent; Child; Depressive Disorder; Female; Folic Acid; Folic Acid Deficiency; Homocysteine; Humans; Male; Severity of Illness Index; Vitamin B 12; Vitamin B 12 Deficiency; Vitamin D

Oxidative stress has significant role in pathophysiology of any kind of depression through actions of free radicals, non-radical molecules, and unbalancing antioxidant systems in body. In the current study, antidepressant responses of fish oil (FO), Neptune krill oil (NKO), vitamin B12 (Vit B12), and also imipramine (IMP) as the reference were studied. Natural light was employed to induce stress in the animals followed by oral administration of the drugs for 14 days. The antidepressant effect was assessed by tail suspension test (TST) and forced swimming test (FST), antioxidant enzymes and oxidative stress markers were then measured in the brain tissue of the animals. The administration of FO and NKO could significantly reduce the immobility of the animals; while, increasing climbing and swimming time compared to the normal saline in CUS-control group in TST and FST, similarly to IMP but not with Vit B12. Vit B12 could not effect on SOD activity and H

Topics: Animals; Antidepressive Agents; Antioxidants; Depression; Depressive Disorder; Dietary Proteins; Disease Models, Animal; Euphausiacea; Fish Oils; Imipramine; Male; Mice; Oxidative Stress; Pilot Projects; Stress, Physiological; Stress, Psychological; Vitamin B 12

High prevalence rates of both Vitamin B12 insufficiency and depressive symptoms exist in pregnant women. Although the association between depressive symptoms and certain nutrient deficiencies like iron, folate, or Vitamin B12 has been established, the specific relationship between low-normal serum Vitamin B12 levels and depressive symptoms in pregnant women in the United States has not been studied closely. Using 2005-2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data, a secondary analysis was conducted to examine the association between low-normal serum Vitamin B12 level and depression, as measured by a score of 10 or higher on the Patient Health Questionnaire-9, in pregnant women (N = 174). In bivariate regression models, Vitamin B12 level, experiencing poverty, and pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) were significant predictors of depression. In multivariate logistic regression models, pregnant women with low-normal serum Vitamin B12 levels (OR = 3.82, 95% CI [1.10-13.31], p < 0.04) were 3.82 times more likely to experience depression, controlling for sociodemographic characteristics, pre-pregnancy BMI, and the biomarkers hemoglobin and folate. Identifying and treating pregnant women with low-normal Vitamin B12 levels may enhance prenatal depression management.

Topics: Adult; Depressive Disorder; Female; Humans; Nutrition Surveys; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Complications; Pregnant Women; Prevalence; United States; Vitamin B 12; Vitamin B 12 Deficiency

Observational studies have suggested low serum levels of vitamin B12 or folate to be risk factors of depression and anxiety. However, these results may be biased by confounding and reverse causation. Mendelian randomization studies are not subject to these limitations. The aim was to examine the association of genetic scores of vitamin B12 and folate-associated alleles with depression and anxiety.. The study included 4126 participants from two Danish population-based studies. Serum vitamin B12 and folate were measured. Weighed allele scores were calculated as the sum of weights (genetic effect sizes) for 12 and two variants increasing circulating levels of vitamin B12 and folate, respectively. Symptoms of depression and anxiety were assessed by the Symptom Check List (SCL)-90-R, and self-reported doctor-diagnosed depression and anxiety.. An increased weighed allele score for serum vitamin B12 was associated with decreased odds of a SCL-90-R score above the 90th percentile (OR 0.540 (95%CI 0.302-0.967)) in Health2006 but not in Inter99, in the pooled analysis (OR 0.817 (95%CI 0.331-2.018)) or with other outcomes. The weighed allele score for serum folate was not associated with any of the measured outcome variables: SCL-90-R scores of depression (pooled OR 0.603 (95%CI 0.101-3.602)), anxiety (pooled OR 0.619 (95%CI 0.110-3.495)), combined score or history of doctor-diagnosed depression or anxiety.. Our results do not provide evidence for a causal effect of circulating folate or vitamin B12 on the risk of depression or anxiety. However, we cannot rule out small to moderate effects, and thus large scale studies are needed.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Anxiety; Cohort Studies; Denmark; Depressive Disorder; Female; Folic Acid; Genetic Predisposition to Disease; Humans; Male; Mendelian Randomization Analysis; Middle Aged; Psychometrics; Surveys and Questionnaires; Vitamin B 12; White People; Young Adult

To investigate the associations of vitamin B12 (cobalamin and holotranscobalamin) status with depression, cognition and neuropathy in patients with type 2 diabetes using metformin.. In an observational study, among 550 type 2 diabetes patients using metformin, cobalamin and holotranscobalamin (holoTCII) levels were measured at the annual diabetes checkup, and deficiencies were defined as <148 and <21 pmol/L, respectively. Depression and cognitive function were assessed with corresponding International Classification of Primary Care codes and questionnaires; neuropathy with medical record data and a questionnaire. Confounding variables were retrieved from medical records. Multivariable logistic and linear regressions were used with cobalamin status as independent variable; depression, cognition and neuropathy as dependent variables.. The mean duration of diabetes was 8.4 years (±5.8); mean duration of metformin use was 64.1 months (±43.2), with a mean metformin dose of 1,306 mg/day. A sufficient cobalamin level was independently associated with a decreased risk of depression (OR 0.42; 95 % CI 0.23-0.78) and better cognitive performance (β = 1.79; 95 % CI 0.07-3.52) adjusted for confounders. This indicates that cobalamin-deficient patients had a 2.4 times higher chance of depression and a 1.79 point lower cognitive performance score. HoloTCII was not associated with any outcome.. Cobalamin deficiency was associated with an increased risk of depression and worse cognitive performance, while holoTCII was not. Screening for cobalamin deficiency may be warranted in diabetes patients using metformin. Physicians should consider a cobalamin deficiency in diabetes patients using metformin with a depression or cognitive decline.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Cognition; Depressive Disorder; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2; Diabetic Neuropathies; Female; Humans; Male; Metformin; Vitamin B 12; Vitamin B 12 Deficiency

Studies in the general population have proposed links between nutrition and depression, but less is known about the perinatal period. Depletion of nutrient reserves throughout pregnancy and delayed postpartum repletion could increase the risk of perinatal depression. We examined the relationships of plasma folate and vitamin B12 concentrations during pregnancy with perinatal depression. At 26th-28th weeks of gestation, plasma folate and vitamin B12 were measured in women from the GUSTO mother-offspring cohort study in Singapore. Depressive symptoms were measured with the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) during the same period and at 3-month postpartum. EPDS scores of ≥15 during pregnancy or ≥13 at postpartum were indicative of probable depression. Of 709 women, 7.2% (n = 51) were identified with probable antenatal depression and 10.4% (n = 74) with probable postnatal depression. Plasma folate concentrations were significantly lower in those with probable antenatal depression than those without (mean ± SD; 27.3 ± 13.8 vs 40.4 ± 36.5 nmol/L; p = 0.011). No difference in folate concentrations was observed in those with and without probable postnatal depression. In adjusted regression models, the likelihood of probable antenatal depression decreases by 0.69 for every unit variation (increase) in folate (OR = 0.69 per SD increase in folate; 95% CI: 0.52, 0.94). Plasma vitamin B12 concentrations were not associated with perinatal depression. Lower plasma folate status during pregnancy was associated with antenatal depression, but not with postnatal depression. Replication in other studies is needed to determine the direction of causality between low folate and antenatal depression.. NCT01174875.

Topics: Adult; Cohort Studies; Depression, Postpartum; Depressive Disorder; Female; Folic Acid; Humans; Multivariate Analysis; Odds Ratio; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Complications; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; Regression Analysis; Singapore; Vitamin B 12

To investigate if there is any association between the serum folate and vitamin B12 status and the depressive symptoms in postmenopausal women.. The study included 95 postmenopausal women. The Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) was used to assess their depressive symptoms. The investigated women were classified into 2 groups based on the existence of depressive symptoms. These 2 groups were compared in terms of folic acid and vitamin B12 levels.. Among 95 cases, 27 postmenopausal women scored 16 or more on the CES-D scale and were classified as the depressive group (Group 1), and 68 postmenopausal women scored 15 or less and were classified as the nondepressive group (Group 2). The serum levels of folate were 11.5 ± 5.4 ng/mL in group 1 and 12.3 ± 5.3 ng/mL in group 2. The concentrations of vitamin B12 were 456.2 ± 343.4 pg/mL in group 1 and 446.5 ± 165.1 pg/mL in group 2. The folate and vitamin B12 levels did not significantly correlate to the frequency of depressive symptoms (P = 0.52 and P = 0.24, respectively).. In this study, no correlation was detected between serum folate and vitamin B12 levels and depressive symptoms in postmenopausal women. Supplementation of folic acid and vitamin B12 for postmenopausal women does not seem to be an effective intervention to reduce depressive symptoms.

Topics: Adult; Age Factors; Aged; Case-Control Studies; Depressive Disorder; Dietary Supplements; Female; Folic Acid; Humans; Middle Aged; Needs Assessment; Postmenopause; Vitamin B 12

Increased plasma homocysteine, decreased vitamin B(12) and folic acid levels have been implicated in depressive mood. Plasma homocystine, vitamin B(12), folic acid tryptophan, lipids and lipoproteins were determined in depressed patients and controls.. Sixty subjects consisting of 30 depressed patients and 30 apparently healthy volunteers, who served as controls, were selected for this study. Anthropometric indices and biochemical parameters were determined using standard procedures.. The results showed a significantly higher plasma homocysteine level amongst depressed patients when compared with the corresponding controls (p < 0.001), the percentage increase was 116%, while the plasma vitamin B(12) (p < 0.01), total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein cholesterol and low density lipoprotein cholesterol levels (p < 0.001) were markedly lower when amongst depressed patients when compared with the corresponding controls; the percentage differences were 21%, 42% and 42% respectively. Plasma triglyceride, folic acid and tryptophan levels amongst depressed patients were not significantly different from the controls. The male subjects had significantly higher plasma tHcy levels than the female counterparts ( p < 0.001).. This study showed a significant increase in plasma tHcy coexisting with a decrease in plasma vitamin B(12) TC, LDLC and HDLC, in depressed patients. Increased plasma homocysteine could be a sensitive indicator of plasma B vitamin deficiency.

Topics: Adult; Cholesterol; Depressive Disorder; Female; Folic Acid; Homocysteine; Humans; Lipids; Lipoproteins; Male; Middle Aged; Risk Factors; Serotonin; Sex Distribution; Vitamin B 12; Young Adult

Vitamin B12 and homocysteine have been shown to be associated with depression or depressive symptoms, but the relationship has not been universal. Both vitamin B12 and homocysteine may exert an effect via vascular mechanisms; it is possible that other mechanisms apply. Holotranscobalamin is a novel, more accurate measure of tissue vitamin B12.. To examine associations between vitamin B12, serum folate, holotranscobalamin, homocysteine and depressive symptoms in a sample of healthy elderly.. Cross-sectional, observational community based study.. Lower levels of holotranscobalamin and vitamin B12 were associated with higher levels of depressive symptoms when controlled for Mini-mental state examination scores and psychosocial and cardiovascular risk factors. Homocysteine was not associated with depressive symptoms when biological and psychosocial covariates were included.. It is possible that low levels of vitamin B12 or holotranscobalamin are associated with depressive symptoms via mechanisms other than vascular pathology.

Topics: Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Biomarkers; Cohort Studies; Depressive Disorder; Female; Homocysteine; Humans; Male; Northern Ireland; Personal Satisfaction; Prospective Studies; Transcobalamins; Urban Population; Vitamin B 12

Leukoencephalopathy and autonomic dysfunction have been described in individuals with very low serum B(12) levels (<200 pg/ml), in addition to psychiatric changes, neuropathy, dementia and subacute combined degeneration. Elevated homocysteine and methylmalonic acid levels are considered more sensitive and specific for evaluating truly functional B(12) deficiency. A previously healthy 62-year-old woman developed depression and cognitive deficits with autonomic dysfunction that progressed over the course of 5 years. The patient had progressive, severe leukoencephalopathy on multiple MRI scans over 5 years. Serum B(12) levels ranged from 267 to 447 pg/ml. Homocysteine and methylmalonic acid levels were normal. Testing for antibody to intrinsic factor was positive, consistent with pernicious anaemia. After treatment with intramuscular B(12) injections (1000 μg daily for 1 week, weekly for 6 weeks, then monthly), she made a remarkable clinical recovery but remained amnesic for major events of the last 5 years. Repeat MRI showed partial resolution of white matter changes. Serum B(12), homocysteine and methylmalonic acid levels are unreliable predictors of B(12)-responsive neurologic disorders, and should be thoroughly investigated and presumptively treated in patients with unexplained leukoencephalopathy because even long-standing deficits may be reversible.

Topics: Autoantibodies; Autonomic Nervous System Diseases; Brain; Cognition Disorders; Depressive Disorder; Drug Therapy, Combination; Female; Homocysteine; Humans; Intrinsic Factor; Leukoencephalopathies; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Mental Status Schedule; Methylmalonic Acid; Middle Aged; Neurologic Examination; Psychometrics; Vitamin B 12; Vitamin B 12 Deficiency; Vitamin D

Cutaneous dysaesthesia syndromes are characterized by chronic cutaneous symptoms without objective findings, and their aetiologies are obscure. Trichodynia describes pain and a stinging sensation of the scalp related to diffuse alopecia.. To determine the prevalence rate of trichodynia in patients with diffuse alopecia; to assess the serum zinc, folate and vitamin B(12) levels; and to investigate the significance of psychological disorders in these patients.. The study comprised 91 patients with a diagnosis of diffuse hair loss and 74 healthy controls. Patients were questioned about the presence of trichodynia, and their serum zinc, folate and vitamin B(12) levels were assessed. They were also evaluated using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), the Beck Anxiety Inventory, and the Somatoform Dissociation Questionnaire (SDQ).. The rates of androgenetic alopecia and telogen effluvium were 26.4% and 73.6%, respectively, Trichodynia was found in 30 patients (33%), and was more common in the telogen effluvium group than in the androgenetic alopecia group (P = 0.5). There was no significant difference between the patients with alopecia and controls for zinc, folate and vitamin B(12) levels, or for psychological test scores. However, the BDI and SDQ scores were significantly higher (P = 0.03 and P = 0.01, respectively) in patients with than those in without trichodynia.. Trichodynia is a commonly encountered symptom in patients with diffuse alopecia, and depression and somatoform dissociation disorders may play an important role in its aetiology. Our data provide no evidence that serum levels of zinc, folate or vitamin B(12) are involved in the pathogenesis of trichodynia.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Alopecia; Case-Control Studies; Depressive Disorder; Female; Folic Acid; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Paresthesia; Scalp; Somatoform Disorders; Vitamin B 12; Young Adult; Zinc

Prior studies have associated 677C-T Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene polymorphism with decreased enzymatic activity and modified homocysteine regulation. This study determines and compares MTHFR 677C-T distribution and examines its consequences on homocysteine metabolism and alcohol dependence in alcoholic patients classified according to the Babor and Lesch typologies. MTHFR TT genotype was more prevalent in AD patients with milder alcohol dependence (Babor type A) and with Lesch type 3, associated with depression. MTHFR TT was also associated with hyperhomocysteinemia. Determining MTHFR 677C-T genotype, folate and vitamin B12 levels could assist physicians in identifying type 3 patients and improve addictions management.

Topics: Adult; Alcoholism; Depressive Disorder; Female; Genotype; Homocysteine; Humans; Male; Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase (NADPH2); Middle Aged; Polymorphism, Genetic; Vitamin B 12

Topics: Age Factors; Antipsychotic Agents; Autonomic Nervous System; Cholinergic Antagonists; Comorbidity; Confounding Factors, Epidemiologic; Coronary Disease; Depressive Disorder; Electrocardiography; Heart Rate; Humans; Research Design; Vitamin B 12

There is a high frequency (40-50%) of elevated plasma total homocysteine (tHcy) concentrations in elderly patients with mental disorders, and patients with a history of vascular disease exhibit significantly higher plasma tHcy concentration than patients without vascular disease.. The main objective of the present study was to further investigate the association between plasma tHcy concentration and vascular disease in psychogeriatric patients. We have therefore investigated 304 psychogeriatric patients and determined plasma tHcy and its most important determinants (folate and cobalamin status and renal function), and the natriuretic peptide N-terminal-pro brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP). The patients were classified into several groups of vascular disease according to the findings of brain imaging and presence of a history/symptoms indicating manifest occlusive arteriosclerotic vascular disease.. Plasma tHcy concentration is associated with the presence of vascular disease in psychogeriatric patients. The presence of vascular disease is also associated with higher age, higher serum NT-proBNP, renal impairment and lower serum folate concentration than in patients without vascular disease. The significant association between plasma tHcy concentration and vascular disease remained after correction for age and for cystatin C differences between the groups of patients without and with vascular disease. In the present population with only 16% of the patients showing elevated plasma tHcy, renal function was a more important determinant for plasma tHcy concentration than folate status.. Plasma tHcy concentration is associated with vascular disease. In the present population of psychogeriatric patients renal function is associated with vascular disease and elevated plasma tHcy concentration. Thus, the association between plasma tHcy concentration and vascular disease might partially be explained by impairment of renal function.

Topics: Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Alzheimer Disease; Cognition Disorders; Confusion; Dementia; Dementia, Vascular; Depressive Disorder; Female; Folic Acid; Homocysteine; Humans; Kidney Function Tests; Male; Middle Aged; Natriuretic Peptide, Brain; Neuropsychological Tests; Peptide Fragments; Reference Values; Risk Factors; Vitamin B 12

Cobalamin/folate deficiency and vascular disease are prevalent in elderly subjects and may lead to mental symptoms, but may even more often influence the severity of other organic and non-organic mental diseases. In the present study, we have evaluated cobalamin-folate status and the presence of vascular disease in 1,982 psychogeriatric patients investigated and diagnosed in a psychogeriatric clinic. The objective of the present study is to obtain information on the role of cobalamin/folate status and vascular disease in different diagnoses of psychogeriatric patients and their association with plasma homocysteine (tHcy).. We have measured serum cobalamin, blood/serum folate, serum creatinine, plasma tHcy and evaluated the presence of vascular disease in 1,982 well-defined psychogeriatric patients.. The present study indicates that cobalamin/folate deficiencies do not play an important role in cognitive dysfunction in psychogeriatric patients, since only about 7% of the study population had metabolic cobalamin/folate deficiencies. Furthermore, cobalamin/folate deficiencies were rare in younger patients (below 70 years of age). We were also able to confirm our previous finding that there was no association between dementia of Alzheimer type (AD) and plasma tHcy level or metabolic cobalamin/folate deficiencies. Furthermore, we observed a low proportion of vascular disease in patients with AD, which does not give support for an association between well-defined AD and the presence of vascular disease. The presence of vascular disease was higher and of similar degree in patients with mild cognitive impairment and depression, which indicates an association between these diagnoses and the presence of vascular disease. The present study also shows that at plasma tHcy levels below 14 micromol/l, the likelihood of cobalamin/folate deficiency is small and further investigation of cobalamin/folate status could be omitted.

Topics: Age Factors; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Alzheimer Disease; Cognition Disorders; Depressive Disorder; Female; Folic Acid; Hematocrit; Homocysteine; Humans; Male; Mental Disorders; Middle Aged; Nutritional Status; Population; Sweden; Vascular Diseases; Vitamin B 12

Case control studies have supported a relationship between low folic acid and vitamin B112 and high homocysteine levels as possible predictors of depression. The results from epidemiological studies are mixed and largely from elderly populations.. A random subsample of 412 persons aged 60-64 years from a larger community sample underwent psychiatric and physical assessments, and brain MRI scans. Subjects were assessed using the PRIME-MD Patient Health Questionnaire for syndromal depression and severity of depressive symptoms. Blood measures included serum folic acid, vitamin B12, homocysteine and creatinine levels, and total antioxidant capacity. MRI scans were quantified for brain atrophy, subcortical atrophy, and periventricular and deep white-matter hyperintensity on T2-weighted imaging.. Being in the lowest quartile of homocysteine was associated with fewer depressive symptoms, after adjusting for sex, physical health, smoking, creatinine, folic acid and B12 levels. Being in the lowest quartile of folic acid was associated with increased depressive symptoms, after adjusting for confounding factors, but adjustment for homocysteine reduced the incidence rate ratio for folic acid to a marginal level. Vitamin B12 levels did not have a significant association with depressive symptoms. While white-matter hyperintensities had significant correlations with both homocysteine and depressive symptoms, the brain measures and total antioxidant capacity did not emerge as significant mediating variables.. Low folic acid and high homocysteine, but not low vitamin B12 levels, are correlates of depressive symptoms in community-dwelling middle-aged individuals. The effects of folic acid and homocysteine are overlapping but distinct.

Topics: Aged; Antioxidants; Australia; Brain; Case-Control Studies; Causality; Creatinine; Cross-Sectional Studies; Depressive Disorder; Depressive Disorder, Major; Female; Folic Acid; Folic Acid Deficiency; Health Status Indicators; Health Surveys; Homocysteine; Humans; Hyperhomocysteinemia; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Male; Middle Aged; Neuropsychological Tests; Personality Assessment; Predictive Value of Tests; Psychometrics; Reference Values; Statistics as Topic; Vitamin B 12; Vitamin B 12 Deficiency

Low plasma folate and its derivatives have been linked with depressive disorders in studies dating back over 30 years. A thermolabile variant (677C>T) of the enzyme 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) is associated with low serum folate. The present study aimed to explore whether the thermolabile variant of MTHFR is associated with a vulnerability to depressive episodes. MTHFR C677T genotype frequencies in a cohort of patients (mean age 48 years) with depressive disorder (n = 100) were compared with those in age- and sex-matched controls. Serum levels of folate, homocysteine and vitamin B(12) were also compared between groups. The thermolabile variant of MTHFR was significantly more common in the group with a history of depressive disorder (P= 0.03). Serum levels of folate, homocysteine and vitamin B(12) did not differ significantly between groups. A MTHFR C677T genotype is associated with increased risk of depressive episodes in this homogenous patient population.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Cohort Studies; Depressive Disorder; Female; Folic Acid; Gene Frequency; Genotype; Homocystine; Humans; Ireland; Male; Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase (NADPH2); Middle Aged; Polymorphism, Genetic; Vitamin B 12

An association between depression and folate status has been demonstrated in clinical studies, whereas data are sparse on the relationship between depression and other components of 1-carbon metabolism such as vitamin B12, homocysteine, and the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase 677C-->T polymorphism. The relationship between anxiety and these components is less well known. This study examined the associations between folate, total homocysteine, vitamin B12, and the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase 677C-->T polymorphism, and anxiety and depression in a large population-based study.. Anxiety and depression, measured by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, were assessed in 5948 subjects aged 46 to 49 years (mean, 47.4 years) and 70 to 74 years (mean, 71.9 years) from the Hordaland Homocysteine Study cohort. By means of logistic regression models, anxiety and depression scores were examined in relation to the factors listed above.. Overall, hyperhomocysteinemia (plasma total homocysteine level > or =15.0 micro mol/L [> or =2.02 mg/dL]) (odds ratio, 1.90; 95% confidence interval, 1.11-3.25) and T/T methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase genotype (odds ratio, 1.69; 95% confidence interval, 1.09-2.62), but not low plasma folate or vitamin B12 levels, were significantly related to depression without comorbid anxiety disorder. Plasma folate level was inversely associated with depression only in the subgroup of middle-aged women. None of the investigated parameters showed a significant relationship to anxiety.. Our results provide further evidence of a role of impaired 1-carbon metabolism in depression.

Topics: Aged; Anxiety Disorders; Cohort Studies; Cross-Sectional Studies; Depressive Disorder; Folic Acid; Genotype; Homocysteine; Humans; Logistic Models; Male; Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase (NADPH2); Middle Aged; Norway; Odds Ratio; Oxidoreductases Acting on CH-NH Group Donors; Personality Inventory; Polymorphism, Genetic; Risk Factors; Vitamin B 12

Despite of an increasing body of research the associations between vitamin B12 and folate levels and the treatment outcome in depressive disorders are still unsolved. We therefore conducted this naturalistic prospective follow-up study. Our aim was to determine whether there were any associations between the vitamin B12 and folate level and the six-month treatment outcome in patients with major depressive disorder. Because vitamin B12 and folate deficiency may result in changes in haematological indices, including mean corpuscular volume, red blood cell count and hematocrit, we also examined whether these indices were associated with the treatment outcome.. Haematological indices, erythrocyte folate and serum vitamin B12 levels were determined in 115 outpatients with DSM-III-R major depressive disorder at baseline and serum vitamin B12 level again on six-month follow-up. The 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale was also compiled, respectively. In the statistical analysis we used chi-squared test, Pearson's correlation coefficient, the Student's t-test, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and univariate and multivariate linear regression analysis.. Higher vitamin B12 levels significantly associated with a better outcome. The association between the folate level and treatment outcome was weak and probably not independent. No relationship was found between haematological indices and the six-month outcome.. The vitamin B12 level and the probability of recovery from major depression may be positively associated. Nevertheless, further studies are suggested to confirm this finding.

Topics: Adult; Aged; Antidepressive Agents; Depressive Disorder; Erythrocytes; Female; Fluoroimmunoassay; Folic Acid; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; Severity of Illness Index; Treatment Outcome; Vitamin B 12

Topics: Aged; Depressive Disorder; Humans; Male; Social Environment; Vitamin B 12

According to the newer literature on folate deficiencies in depressive patients serum folate and vitamin B12 levels were studied (RIA) in 121 consecutively admitted depressive inpatients (47 male, 74 female depressives; age 17-86 years, mean age 48 years, diagnostic by ICD-9 300.4, 296.1) during the first (1-3) days of admission (normal volumes folate 3-17 ng/ml, vitamin B12 200-900 pg/ml). Only in two patients serum folate below 3 ng/ml were found, low vitamin B12 levels (below 200 pg/ml) showed 14 patients. This result is in contrast to other authors who found folate deficiencies in 10-50% of psychiatric patients.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Depressive Disorder; Female; Folic Acid; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Patient Admission; Radioimmunoassay; Reference Values; Vitamin B 12

Ninety-nine consecutive unmedicated outpatients with a major depressive illness had blood drawn for measurement of serum folate (SF), red cell folate (RCF), and vitamin B12 within 24 hours of completion of ratings of severity of depression at the beginning and ending of a 5-week trial of desmethylimipramine (mean dose = 149.2 mg/day, range = 75-225 mg). As compared with nonresponders, responders had a significantly higher mean SF at baseline (nonresponders = 13.8 nmol/l; responders = 17.7 nmol/l) and RCF showed a significant inverse correlation with severity of depression and a significant positive correlation with age of onset of illness. At week 5, change in severity of depression was significantly correlated with change in RCF, and significantly more responders than nonresponders had an increase in RCF. The possible role of folate status in the regulation of mood and response to treatment is discussed.

Topics: Adult; Body Weight; Cross-Sectional Studies; Depressive Disorder; Desipramine; Erythrocytes; Female; Folic Acid; Humans; Longitudinal Studies; Male; Middle Aged; Personality Assessment; Vitamin B 12

Topics: Adult; Depressive Disorder; Erythrocytes; Female; Folic Acid; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; Regression Analysis; Thyroid Hormones; Vitamin B 12

Topics: Anemia, Pernicious; Bipolar Disorder; Depressive Disorder; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Neurocognitive Disorders; Paranoid Disorders; Vitamin B 12; Vitamin B 12 Deficiency

Topics: Adult; Depressive Disorder; Humans; Male; Methyl n-Butyl Ketone; Occupational Diseases; Occupational Exposure; Substance-Related Disorders; Vitamin B 12

Red cell folate and vitamin B12 estimations were performed on 243 successively admitted in-patients at a District General Hospital Psychiatric Unit and 42 out-patients (29 attending a lithium clinic). Patients were classified into five diagnostic groups. The mean ages of the manic and schizophrenic patients were lower than of the depressed or euthymic patients but age was not correlated with red cell folate or serum B12 levels in any group. There were 89 (31%) patients with red cell folate below 200 ng/ml and 35 (12%) with concentrations below 150 ng/ml. Significantly more of these low-folate patients were in-patients than out-patients. The mean red cell folate in the depressed patients was significantly lower than in the euthymic, manic and schizophrenic groups. Alcoholics had a similar mean red cell folate to depressed patients which was not quite significantly lower than the other groups. The mean serum B12 level in the alcoholics was, however, significantly raised. There were no significant differences in red cell folate or serum B12 between lithium-treated and untreated euthymic patients. The highest proportions of values below 200 ng/ml and 150 ng/ml were found in depressed and alcoholic patients. Endogenous depressives had the highest percentage of values below 150 ng/ml (folate-deficient) of all psychiatric groups and alcoholic patients. The significance of these findings is discussed.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Alcoholism; Bipolar Disorder; Depressive Disorder; Erythrocytes; Female; Folic Acid; Folic Acid Deficiency; Humans; Male; Mental Disorders; Middle Aged; Schizophrenia; Vitamin B 12

This chart review study examined the serum vitamin B12 and folate status of 102 geriatric patients newly admitted to a private psychiatric hospital. Only 3.7% were B12 deficient and 1.3% were folate deficient; 4% were anemic. Nevertheless, those with below-median values of both vitamins had significantly lower Mini-Mental State scores than patients higher in one or both vitamins. Patients with "organic psychosis" with a negative family history for psychiatric disorder had significantly lower B12 levels than those with a positive family history. In major depression, folate levels correlated negatively with age at onset of psychiatric illness and length of hospitalization. These data suggest that (1) biochemically interrelated vitamins such as B12 and folate may exert both a separate and a concomitant influence on affect and cognition; (2) poorer vitamin status may contribute to certain geropsychiatric disorders that begin at a later age and lack a familial predisposition.

Topics: Affective Disorders, Psychotic; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Bipolar Disorder; Cognition Disorders; Depressive Disorder; Female; Folic Acid; Hospitalization; Humans; Length of Stay; Male; Middle Aged; Neurocognitive Disorders; Retrospective Studies; Vitamin B 12

Forty-four consecutive, unmedicated outpatients with a major depressive disorder were evaluated to determine the relationships in life course, severity of depressive illness, and serum folate and B12 levels. Duration of current episode was significantly inversely correlated with folate levels. Age at onset of illness was significantly correlated with B12. In a subgroup of recurrent depressives, current age and age at onset of depressive illness were positively correlated with folate. The findings are discussed in light of the current hypotheses regarding the association of folate and mood.

Topics: Adult; Depressive Disorder; Female; Folic Acid; Folic Acid Deficiency; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Psychological Tests; Recurrence; Vitamin B 12; Vitamin B 12 Deficiency

Plasma levels of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) and the related pterin folate were concurrently measured in 20 pairs of depressed patients and age-matched controls. The mean values of plasma BH4 in depressed patients was significantly elevated to a level about 150% of that found in the controls. Folate levels were not different between groups. These findings emphasize that BH4, a required cofactor in the biosynthesis of catecholamines and indolamines, is altered in depression.

Topics: Adult; Biopterins; Depressive Disorder; Folic Acid; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Radioimmunoassay; Vitamin B 12

Topics: Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Ascorbic Acid; Depressive Disorder; Erythrocytes; Female; Folic Acid; Humans; Male; Vitamin B 12

The authors describe dexamethasone nonsuppression in a depressed patient with a vitamin B12 deficiency. After B12 replacement there was no change in the patient's clinical state. However, the dexamethasone suppression test normalized. Thus, dexamethasone nonsuppression in this patient seemed to be more closely related to vitamin B12 deficiency than to affective state.

Topics: Depressive Disorder; Dexamethasone; Female; Humans; Hydrocortisone; Middle Aged; Vitamin B 12; Vitamin B 12 Deficiency

S-adenosylmethionine (SAM) has antidepressant properties. The commonest neuropsychiatric complication of severe folate deficiency is depression. These independent observations suggest that methylation in the nervous system may underlie the expression of mood and related processes and may be implicated in some affective disorders; suggest new biological approaches to the understanding and treatment of some affective disorders; and may explain why methionine sometimes aggravates schizophrenia.

Topics: Anemia, Megaloblastic; Brain; Depressive Disorder; Emotions; Folic Acid Deficiency; Humans; Methylation; S-Adenosylmethionine; Schizophrenia; Vitamin B 12; Vitamin B 12 Deficiency

Topics: Anemia; Anemia, Hypochromic; Anemia, Pernicious; Anxiety; Anxiety Disorders; Arthritis; Arthritis, Rheumatoid; Bone Marrow Examination; Depression; Depressive Disorder; Drug Therapy; Humans; Neurotic Disorders; Paranoid Disorders; Vitamin B 12; Vitamin B 12 Deficiency; Xylose

Topics: Alkaline Phosphatase; Anemia; Anemia, Hypochromic; Anemia, Pernicious; Depressive Disorder; Hematinics; Humans; Intestines; Liver; Metabolism; Vitamin B 12

Topics: Amitriptyline; Antidepressive Agents; Benzoates; Classification; Depression; Depressive Disorder; Drug Therapy; Electroconvulsive Therapy; Imipramine; Isocarboxazid; Isoniazid; Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors; Nialamide; Pargyline; Phenelzine; Phentolamine; Psychopharmacology; Psychotherapy; Reserpine; Sulfates; Toxicology; Tranylcypromine; Vitamin B 12

Topics: Adolescent; Alcoholism; Corrinoids; Depression; Depressive Disorder; Drug Therapy; Geriatrics; Hematinics; Neurasthenia; Neuritis; Vitamin B 12