Conceito de distimia. Utilidade clínica e estatuto nosológico.

Abstract

Dysthymia is currently conceived as an independent diagnostic category in the area of mood disorders, but the concept is controversial, both from a theoretical and clinical point of view. This article reviews the concept of dysthymia as well as its history. The clinical usefulness and validity are examined, taking into special consideration the influential classificatory notions of DSM-IV.