Elevated Triglyceride Levels and Increased Psychiatric Symptoms in Individuals With Major Depressive Disorder

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a widely prevalent and rising global condition whose pathophysiology is not yet completely understood. Recent studies have shown that lipid changes are crucial in the manifestation and progression of MDD. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the lipid profile and psychosocial aspects of MDD. Individuals with MDD and controls (non-MDD) were selected. The diagnosis of MDD was made using the MINI International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI-Plus). Functionality analysis used the Functional Assessment Short Test (FAST) scale. The severity of depressive and anxious symptoms was assessed using the Hamilton Depression and Anxiety Rating Scales (HAM-D and HAM-A). Biological rhythms were evaluated using the Biological Rhythms Interview of Assessment in Neuropsychiatry (BRIAN). Stress levels were assessed using the stress symptoms inventory. Lipid profiles were evaluated in plasma. One hundred sixty individuals were included: 31 individuals with a diagnosis of MDD and 129 non-MDD. Individuals with MDD showed more significant functional impairment, greater severity of depressive and anxious symptoms, and higher levels of stress, in addition to greater impairment in biological rhythm when compared to controls. Individuals with MDD had higher triglyceride levels (TG). Total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels were not significantly different between individuals with MDD and controls. In conclusion, individuals with MDD present functional impairments, psychosocial changes, and changes in the lipid profile. Longitudinal studies are recommended to assess the long-term effects of these changes and to investigate how the lipid profile influences brain function.