ICD-10 Classification of Mental and Behavioural Disorders, World Health Organization, Geneva, 1992
F32.2 Severe depressive episode without psychotic symptoms
Definition | Diagnostic Guidelines | DCR-10 Criteria
In a severe depressive episode, the sufferer usually shows considerable distress or agitation, unless retardation is a marked feature. Loss of self-esteem or feelings of uselessness or guilt are likely to be prominent, and suicide is a distinct danger in particularly severe cases. It is presumed here that the somatic syndrome will almost always be present in a severe depressive episode.All three of the typical symptoms noted for mild and moderate depressive episodes should be present, plus at least four other symptoms, some of which should be of severe intensity. However, if important symptoms such as agitation or retardation are marked, the patient may be unwilling or unable to describe many symptoms in detail. An overall grading of severe episode may still be justified in such instances. The depressive episode should usually last at least 2 weeks, but if the symptoms are particularly severe and of very rapid onset, it may be justified to make this diagnosis after less than 2 weeks.
During a severe depressive episode it is very unlikely that the sufferer will be able to continue with social, work, or domestic activities, except to a very limited extent.
This category should be used only for single episodes of severe depression without psychotic symptoms; for further episodes, a subcategory of recurrent depressive disorder should be used.
Includes:
* single episodes of agitated depression
* melancholia or vital depression without psychotic symptoms
A. The general criteria for depressive episode must be met
B. All three symptoms in criterion B, F32.0, must be present
C. Additional symptoms from F32.0, criterion C, must be present, to give a
total of at least eight
D. There must be no hallucinations, delusions, or depressive stupor
ICD-10 copyright © 1992 by World Health Organization.