Irritability and the Development of Depression during Cancer Treatment: A Case Report

Abstract Depression is prevalent among cancer patients and has a significant adverse impact on the outcome of cancer treatment. Early detection and intervention of mood dysregulation during cancer treatment can constitute a good strategy for preventing and minimizing depression in cancer patients. This case report presents information on the progression of mood dysregulation from irritability to depression during the initial 9 months of cancer treatment. It characterizes the mood of irritability and its multidimensional manifestation, distinguishes irritability from manifestation of anxiety and depression, and illustrates a relationship between irritability and depression from a cancer patient’s perspective. This case report offers a meaningful clinical insight into the developmental process of depression, hence providing a better understanding about early detection of depression in patients diagnosed with cancer. Keywords: Irritability; depression; anxiety; cancer treatment; mental health