INTRODUCTION: Epilepsy and depression are two of the most frequent central nervous system disorders. Some studies have shown that many individuals with epilepsy also suffer of depression. OBJECTIVE: To warning about the prevalence of co-morbidity of depression/epilepsy and the importance of the concomitant treatment of the two entities, as well as to assist in the choice of the best therapeutic approach. METHOD: A searching in the HighWire Press in the period of 1996-2007 was carried out, using the describers: depression, epilepsy, seizures, treatment, crossed references of selected articles and additional analysis of references in the specific literature. RESULTS: Despite the negative influence of the mood disorders in the quality of life of patients with epilepsy, there is an unjustified resistance of physicians in treating both diseases. CONCLUSIONS: Neurologists and psychiatrists should be prepared to treat these patients successfully and thus improve the quality of life of patients with epilepsy.
epilepsy; depression; treatment