Prediction of ECT response: validation of a refined sign-based (CORE) system for defining melancholia.

Background: The clinical validity of melancholia has been argued on the basis of its capacity to predict response to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). We have argued that a sign-based (CORE) rating system of psychomotor disturbance can identify patients with melancholia. Therefore, the clinical validity of the CORE system was tested here in terms of its capacity to predict response to ECT.

Method: The response of 81 patients with primary affective disorders to an individualised course of ECT was investigated. CORE scores and other clinical predictors were evaluated in terms of their capacity to predict effect size changes in symptoms and disability.

Results: CORE scores predicted ECT response, as did the presence of psychotic features. The combination of marked psychomotor change (high CORE scores) and psychotic features predicted the best response to ECT.

Conclusion: This study supports the clinical validity of the CORE system for diagnosing melancholia.