Depression in transplantation

Purpose of review To review and summarize the literature published between 1 January 2020 and 30 June 2022, on the prevalence, risk factors and impact of depression in transplant population. Recent findings Depression is common in transplantation candidates and recipients, with a prevalence up to 85.8% in kidney recipients. Multiple studies have indicated after transplantation depression correlates with increased mortality and with higher healthcare utilization. Social risk factors for posttransplant depression include financial difficulties and unemployment, while less is understood about the biological substrate of depression in this population. There is evidence that dynamic psychotherapy is effective for depression in organ transplant recipients, while cognitive behavioral therapy or supportive therapy did not lead to improvement of depression in transplant recipients. For living organ donors, the rates of depression are similar to the general population, with financial factors and the clinical status of the recipient playing a significant role. Summary Depression is a common finding in transplant population. More research is needed to understand the biological substrate and risk factors and to develop effective treatment interventions.