Severe asthma and depression.

The comorbidity of severe asthma and depression is frequent and complicates the patient's comprehensive medical management. Asthma and depression are thought to interact to worsen both conditions, especially at the severe end of the spectrum of disease. This article reviews the current thinking regarding the synergistic effect of the two disorders, highlighting the importance of considering both disorders in the comprehensive management of severe asthma. Outpatient management and treatment issues addressed include the use of screening/case-finding tools, medication management, physician counseling, and referral.