Major depression in primary care.

Major depression in a primary care population is an important clinical entity. Although major depression is prevalent in primary care, it is frequently underdiagnosed and undertreated. The presence of major depression in the medically ill increases morbidity, mortality, and utilization of medical resources. Depression may be the initial manifestation of a medical disorder. The diagnosis of major depression in primary care requires a thorough work-up. This depressive disorder responds best to a combination of counseling and antidepressant medication. An algorithm is suggested to assist the clinician in the selection of an appropriate antidepressant.