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Ken, Major depressive disorder occurs in a large percentage of PWP sometime in the course of the illness. The neurotransmitter loss coupled with having a chronic illness is a set up for this illness. The lack of interest in food while changes in taste and smell may have a role- is a cardinal symptom of depression- along with sad mood, sleep disturbance, and general lack of ability to enjoy anything. (as well as low energy, low libido, suicidal thoughts etc. This should be reported to the neurologist as well as followed up for other causes of weight loss such as malignancy etc. If there are significant other symptoms of depression he should be evaluated by a psychiatrist. Charlie > > At 08:14 AM 5/11/97 -0400, you wrote: > >I spoke with the daughter of a PWP yesterday who was very concerned > about > >her father's weight loss. He has dropped from 165 to 105 and has > lost > >interest in eating even when his favorite meals are prepared. I > understand > >that loss of appetite due to changes in sense of taste & smell is > common > >but what actions have others taken to combat such a dramatic and > obviously > >unhealthy loss of weight? > > > >- Ken Aidekman -- ********************************************************** CHARLES T. MEYER, M.D. MADISON, WISCONSIN [log in to unmask] **********************************************************