Diagnosis and treatment of depression in cancer patients.

Depression is a common complication of cancer, occurring in about 25% of all patients. If left untreated, depression can contribute to poor treatment compliance, increased hospital stays, and mortality. Medical issues, as well as psychosocial stressors, can complicate the diagnosis of depression in people with cancer. This article describes the clinical presentation of depression in cancer patients, reviews the differential diagnosis, and discusses various treatment options, including antidepressants.