ISSN (Online): 2321-3418
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Medical Sciences and Pharmacy
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MTHFR Gene Mutation and Its Repercussion in the Genesis and Treatment of Depression: Case Report

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DOI: 10.18535/ijsrm/v9i07.mp03· Pages: 415-421· Vol. 9, No. 07, (2021)· Published: July 28, 2021
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Abstract

This study aims to report the correlation of MTHFR gene mutation with the genesis of depression and antidepressants non-response in a patient, highlighting the importance of genetic investigation and indicating the replacement of L-methylfolate as an effective treatment adjuvant. This is a case report of a patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder, refractory to pharmacological therapies, in monotherapy or combination therapy, and psychotherapy. After 1 year and 4 months of persistent residual symptoms, genetic testing of the MTHFR gene was requested with confirmation of a heterozygous double mutation of MTHFR. This gene polymorphism can result in deficiency of L-methylfolate, which is related to psychiatric diseases and refractoriness to antidepressant therapy. With the introduction of l-methylfolate 15mg, the patient reported remission of depressive symptoms in 4 months of follow-up. MTHFR gene mutations influence the action of folate, favoring depression and leading to refractory response to conventional treatment.

Keywords

Depressive DisorderTreatment-ResistantFolic acid-therapeutic useMethylenetetra hydrofolate Reductase (NADPH2)MethylationBiopterin/metabolism

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Author details
Alexandre Leal Laux
Psychiatrist and professor at Faculdades Pequeno Príncipe - Curitiba-PR
✉ Corresponding Author
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Alana Klochinski
Faculdades Pequeno Príncipe
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Evelyn Suquebski Dib
Faculdades Pequeno Príncipe
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Harien Sprung
Faculdades Pequeno Príncipe
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Jussara Mallmann
Faculdades Pequeno Príncipe
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Vitória Rota
Medical students from Faculdades Pequeno Príncipe - Curitiba-PR
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