Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Hyperactivity and hypoactivity of the HPA have been forwarded as of pathophysiological relevance in major depressive disorder and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), respectively.
METHODS: This study examines cortisol levels in the two disorders, and also assesses levels of the adrenal androgens, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and its sulphate derivative (DHEA-S), and 17-alpha-hydroxyprogesterone; 15 subjects with CFS diagnosed according to CDC criteria, 15 subjects with DSM III-R major depression and 11 healthy subjects were compared.
RESULTS: DHEA and DHEA-S levels were significantly lower in the CFS compared to the healthy group; DHEA-S levels, but not DHEA, were lower in the depressives; cortisol and 17-alpha-hydroxyprogesterone did not differ between the three groups.
CONCLUSIONS: A potential role for DHEA, both therapeutically and as a diagnostic tool, in CFS, is suggested.
Source: Scott LV, Salahuddin F, Cooney J, Svec F, Dinan TG. Differences in adrenal steroid profile in chronic fatigue syndrome, in depression and in health. J Affect Disord. 1999 Jul;54(1-2):129-37. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10403156