Neuroticism, anxiety, and depression in Egyptian atopic bronchial asthma

Abstract

The association between allergic and psychological disorders had been reported, but whether the key mediating ingredients are predominantly biological, psychological, or mere artifacts remains unknown. We aim to examine the relationship between objectively measured atopic status and anxiety, depression, and neuroticism. MethodsThis randomized case controlled trial was conducted on 50 atopic patients and 50 healthy controls. Atopy was determined by skin prick test and allergy related symptoms. Psychological assessment was done using Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) for the level of depression, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) for anxiety level, while Middle Sex Hospital Questionnaire (MHQ) for measurement of neuroticism. Serum total IgE level was detected in both groups. Results100 individuals were enrolled (50 atopic patients and 50 healthy control subjects) with a mean age (28.24±9.74) and (32.60±8.23) respectively. The mean STAI score for both state and trait anxiety was significantly higher in atopic versus non-atopic (p=0.000) while the mean BDI score was higher in atopic than non-atopic patients but without statistical significance. Also, there was no significant difference in the mean MHQ scores (for hysteria, depression, obsession, somatic anxiety, phobic anxiety and free-floating anxiety) in atopic versus non-atopic groups. There was no correlation between the mean STAI, BDI, and MHQ scores and the mean value of total IgE levels in atopic patients. ConclusionAtopic patients are more likely to have both state and trait anxiety than non-atopic. So, it might be considered in management plan of atopic patients.