Electroconvulsive therapy for comorbid major depressive disorder and posttraumatic stress disorder

Objective: Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and major depressive disorder frequently co-occur. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is the most effective treatment for refractory major depressive disorder. We examined the effect of ECT in patients with co-occurring major depression and PTSD. Method: Using a retrospective chart review, we examined the outcome of the cases of 26 patients with major depression and co-occurring PTSD who received a course of ECT. The patients received either suprathreshold right unilateral, bilateral, or a combination of both. Using paired t test analysis, we compared the pretreatment and the posttreatment symptoms using the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale and the PTSD Checklist. Results: The patient receiving ECT had a significant reduction in the symptoms of major depression and some amelioration in PTSD symptoms. Conclusions: Electroconvulsive therapy may be an effective treatment for patients with refractory depression and co-occurring PTSD.