Abstract
A longitudinal study of urinary 17-OHCS in 16 depressive patients showed mean values within the accepted normal range. There were no significant differences between pre-treatment and post-treatment values; only the female patients showed a tendency to have somewhat lower post-treatment levels.
17-KS output was measured in 18 depressive patients. The mean values were within the normal range. There was no significant difference between pre-treatment and post-treatment values although the female patients displayed a tendency towards somewhat lower levels following treatment.
DHA and EA excretion were measured in 9 depressive patients. There was a very wide variance in the findings. There was no significant difference between pre-treatment and post-treatment levels.
The significance of the above findings is discussed. It is considered that measurements of urinary excretion of corticosteroids in affective disorders constitute a limited source of information.
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