Recently, the world was shocked news – scientists declared that in human blood have been found markers, which can be diagnosed major depression. According to lead author – Professor Eva Redey, blood can become a “diagnosis of mental health in the 21st century.” If the test results of further research proves to be reliable, it can literally transform the treatment of mental illness in the future.
Scientists will be able to diagnose depression by a blood test
Major depressive disorder (MDD, clinical depression) is one of the biggest problems in the realities of the developed world. According to the estimates of physicians, 6.7% of North Americans suffer from depression each year, and this figure is growing every year. In addition, the lack of objective criteria for detecting depression contributed common misconception is often argued that such a disease does not exist, and people just pretend. It is not surprising that in the end disbelief surrounding the beginning of even more harm to the people who are depressed.
Redey professor at Northwestern University has developed the world’s first blood test called MDDScore, which analyzes blood levels of nine biomarkers that are thought to be associated with clinical depression. Test was conducted among 70 patients diagnosed with MDD and 43 healthy individuals as a result of which it was determined nine RNA markers in the blood of people suffering from depression, which differed from the usual blood tests in people without MDD.
Differences in the assays were very significant, which reduces the chances of a false diagnosis. According to the study, 32 patients with significant deviations in blood agreed to hold 18-week cognitive-behavioral therapy. After therapy significantly changed their behavior. According to doctors, a new blood test will allow the individual to adjust the treatment of major depressive disorder.
Redey recognizes the need that we need to conduct follow-up study with more people and more frequent testing. She also hopes to test the ability to distinguish between forms of depression, such as bipolar disorder.
