Fix for Depression Associated With Artery Hardening

Ivanhoe Newswire
Wednesday, July 26, 2006; 12:00 AM

(Ivanhoe Newswire) -- Researchers may now have a new fix for depression associated with carotid stenosis.

Carotid stenosis is the build-up of plaque in the carotid artery, which supplies blood to the brain. The condition can lead to stroke. Patients typically undergo surgery, but carotid stenting is being increasingly used more. Surgeons expand the artery with a balloon and use a stent to hold it open.

Now, researchers from Austria say stenting may also prevent depression from occurring in these patients, which is known as "vascular depression." The condition is common, as blood flow to the brain is restricted.

Study investigators report, "Our [study] findings suggest that opening the carotid artery and restoring blood flow to the brain via a minimally invasive technique under local anesthesia is associated with significant reduction in depressive symptoms."

However, they caution while carotid stenting may reduce symptoms associated with vascular depression, it is not a cure or treatment for major depression.

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SOURCE: Radiology, 2006;240:508-514