Relationship between lipid profile and suicide attempts in first-episode major depressive disorder patients

Abstract

Introduction: Cholesterol is considered a core component of the central nervous system, essential for cell membrane stability and the correct functioning of neurotransmitters. Cholesterol plays a vital role in the brain’s second messenger system related to the mechanism of action of antidepressant drugs and mood stabilizers. It may be involved in the etiology and pathogenesis of mood disorders. Aim: This study aims to explicate facts and views about the role of cholesterol levels in depressive disorder and suicidality. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional comparative study where the patients were divided into two groups, i.e., subjects with first-episode major depressive disorder (MDD) with a recent suicide attempt and without suicide attempt. A detailed psychiatric interview, their sociodemographic characteristics, and clinical details were noted on a structured pro forma. MDD diagnosis in the patients was made using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders V. Hamilton Depression Rating Scale was used on subjects to determine the patient’s level of depression. After the overnight fast, blood samples are collected between 6 am and 7 am. Total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride, high-density lipid levels, and low-density lipid levels were measured on the Cobas c311 machine. Results: In the current study, a positive correlation was noted in TC (r = 0.488) and low-density lipid (LDL) levels (r = 0.549) in subjects with depression and suicide attempts. Conclusion: The present study results add to the other studies that support an association between serum cholesterol with depression and suicide. Understanding the significance of lower cholesterol levels is central for future treatments of depressive disorder.

Keywords

• depression
• fatty acids
• serum cholesterol
• suicide