| Abstract: | Seventy-three elderly patients (38 with Alzheimer-type dementia (ATD) and 35 with major depressive disorder) were followed up 2–5 years after an index admission during which a dexamethasone suppression test (DST) had been performed. Clinical state, cognitive function, neurological status and repeat DST were assessed where possible. The death rate was high in both groups (greater in the ATD group) but was not influenced by original DST status. Original DST status did not predict on survival time, development of physical illness or admission rate in either group, but DST non-suppression in the depressed group was associated with significant cognitive decline and abnormal neurological features. Possible mechanisms of the association are discussed. |
