In this video, Professor Dr. Brenda Penninx discusses the heterogeneity of major depressive disorder, with specific reference to immunometabolic depression. Major depressive disorder is a highly prevalent but heterogeneous condition, with different underlying causes, symptom profiles, and pathophysiology.
Immunometabolic depression, a subtype affecting 20–30% of patients, is characterised by symptoms like hypersomnia, increased appetite, and fatigue. Research suggests that these symptoms are driven by systemic inflammation and metabolic dysfunction, pointing to the potential of targeted treatments such as anti-inflammatory medications and lifestyle interventions.
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