Comorbid mental disorders in laryngectomees

Objectives: This study attempted to determine the prevalence of mental disorders among laryngectomees and to assess the current status of the supplied psychooncological care. Patients and Methods: Patients who were laryngectomized between 1970 and 2001 were recruited at 6 different otolaryngology clinics in the region of Central Germany. 189 interviews were conducted. Structured clinical interviews ( SCID) and standardized questionnaires (HADS, KFA) were used to assess patients' mental health. The past and the current status of received psychotherapeutic care was evaluated. Results: 23% of the patients were diagnosed with mental disorders. The most frequently occurring disorder was alcohol dependency with 8%, followed by affective disorders (7% major depression, 5% minor depression). Only one patient was currently receiving psychotherapeutic or psychiatric treatment. Conclusion: Only a small fraction of the laryngectomy patients suffering from mental illness were receiving appropriate treatment.