Recurrent psychotic depression. Evidence of diagnostic stability.

A review of the research comparing psychotic and nonpsychotic depression gives considerable evidence to support the view that these groups are distinct diagnostic subtypes. A representative sample of the research favoring this view is presented. Particular note is made of Charney and Nelson's data on stability of diagnosis. Our finding of 92.3% of psychotic depressives experiencing previous and/or subsequent psychotic episodes is consistent with Charney and Nelson's findings. Additional support for stability of diagnosis is the rare occurrence of nonpsychotic depression found after the index psychotic admission. Clinical and research implications are discussed.