Prevalence and correlates of major depressive disorder (MDD) among adolescent patients with epilepsy attending a Nigerian neuropsychiatric hospital

Abstract Background A high prevalence of mood disorders exists in patients with epilepsy. In most cases, this is not detected and, consequently, not treated. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and correlates of major depressive disorder (MDD) among adolescents with epilepsy attending a child and adolescent clinic in Nigeria. Methods We recruited 156 participants consecutively for the study. Adherence was assessed using the 8-item Morisky Medication Adherence Questionnaire, while the K-SADS was used to assess the presence of major depressive disorder. Seizure control was evaluated by the frequency of seizures within a year. Results Major depressive disorder (DSM-IV criteria) was diagnosed in 28.2% of the participants. The age of participants (p = 0.013), seizure control (p = 0.03), medication adherence (p = 0.045), frequency of seizures in the preceding 4 weeks (p < 0.001), and duration of illness (p < 0.001) were all significantly associated with the presence of MDD. Participants with seizures occurring more than once weekly in the preceding 4 weeks were 16 times more likely to have a MDD compared with those with no seizures in the preceding 4 weeks (p < 0.001, 95% C.I. [4.13, 65.43]), while participants with a duration of illness more than 10 years were more than four times likely to have MDD compared with those with an illness duration of 5–10 years (p < 0.01, 95% C.I. [0.07, 0.70]). Conclusion The prevalence of MDD among patients with epilepsy was high. Poor seizure control, poor medication adherence, and long duration of illness were associated with the presence of MDD among such patients. Intervention should focus on ensuring good seizure control and optimal adherence in order to mitigate the impact of MDD in patients with epilepsy.