Multiple HPA profiles in endogenous depression: effect of age and sex on cortisol and beta-endorphin

Abstract

We have previously shown that a number of depressed patients demonstrated a failure to suppress corticotrophic secretion, as measured by beta-Endorphin/beta-Lipotropin (beta-End/beta-LPH levels), following dexamethasone challenge. The current study is an extension and replication of these findings, as well as an analysis of some of the biological variables which may contribute to the variance in beta-End/beta-LPH nonsuppression. We continue to observe a high rate of beta-End/beta-LPH nonsuppression in depressed patients following dexamethasone; this escape at the pituitary level is even observed in a number of patients who demonstrate normal cortisol suppression. Advancing age, particularly in women, led to higher baseline cortisol, lower baseline beta-End/beta-LPH, and a greater likelihood of being a nonsuppressor on one or both measures.