Depression is the number one mental health problem for Americans, yet it is also one of the least understood of the illnesses in psychology.
We know, intuitively, what depression is, but quantifying it into codified symptoms for diagnosis is not so simple. Like many mental illnesses, the symptoms are more subjective than they are fixed, making it easy to over- or under-diagnose patients and thus end with improper care.
Over time, however, we have learned some of the more measurable aspects of the illness and depression is now better understood. In particular, genetic bio-markers have been associated with some forms of depression but are not widely used in testing as these types of tests are cost-prohibitive and not often covered by insurance.
Testing for Depression: It's in Your Spit
This could change thanks to new developments with a saliva-based test. Yes, your spit may be able to more easily give a diagnosis for depression.
The Genetic Assay test is being tested and uses the patient's saliva to look for the genetic biomarkers associated with depression. It also has the added advantage of measuring the patient's metabolism, which would then give doctors an indication of what medications or dosages are most likely to work.
Currently, a patient diagnosed with depression will be rated in severity based on personal survey questions given by the health care practitioner. The medication is then prescribed and monitored for adjustments or changes over time. It can be a relatively tedious and harrowing process for the patient.
While the tailoring approach would not be abandoned were the new Genetic Assay test to be used, it would be narrowed so that a workable solution for the patient would be found much faster. It would also aid the doctor in more easily "proving" a diagnosis for insurance purposes.
Trials are currently underway in New Jersey.
Source: ABC News
