Biochemical bases of interaction between monoaminergic systems and cortisol as one of the main component of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in pathogenesis of anxious depression are investigated poorly.

Elucidate some biochemical aspects of interaction of monoaminergic systems and cortisol in pathogenetic mechanisms of anxious depression.

Patient's state (61 patients) according to ICD-10 criteria was defined as a depressive episode as an independent disease (F32.1) and in the structure of recurrent depressive disorder (F33.1). The anxiety in the structure of the depression was the main indication to inclusion in the investigation. According to Hamilton rating scale for depression and Hamilton rating scale for anxiety the total points were 21.83 and 18.00, respectively, that corresponded to severe depressive disorder and severe anxiety. 43 of 61 patients were investigated biochemically.

There were revealed significant increase of platelet monoamine oxidase activity and cortisol level. It means that patients with anxious depression are characterized by profound disturbances of monoamine metabolism and hormonal status that are the reflection of disturbed homeostasis as a whole.

There are revealed tight interaction between monoamines and cortisol. We hypothesize about biochemical mechanisms of disturbed balance between serotonergic and noradrenergic systems and cortisol in anxious depression.