Journal of psychiatric research
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White matter hyperintensities (WMHs) on T(2)-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain are associated with advanced age and late-life depression. Most investigations predominantly found these lesions in frontal lobe and basal ganglia supporting the hypothesis of a fronto-striatal dysfunction in depression. A prospective study was undertaken to investigate the association between extent of WMHs and clinical outcome in elderly depressed patients. ⋯ WMHs on MRI are associated with poorer outcome in elderly depressed subjects. Further studies are needed to evaluate WHMs as prognostic factor for an appropriate treatment decision-making.