Differential Diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder in Grief-Related Presentation: A Case Study of Andrew Quinn
Overview
This case study examines the clinical presentation and diagnostic process for Andrew Quinn, who experienced severe symptoms following the loss of his son. The paper presents three possible diagnoses—posttraumatic stress disorder, alcohol use disorder, and major depressive disorder—and justifies why major depressive disorder, recurrent episode, severe is the most appropriate diagnosis after ruling out other conditions.
What this case study covers
- Symptoms and Behavior: Documents Quinn's presenting symptoms including concentration difficulties, flashbacks, sadness, insomnia, guilt, and suicidal ideation across two time periods
- Diagnosis: Presents three possible differential diagnoses with DSM-5 codes
- Justification: Provides clinical rationale for each diagnosis using DSM-5 criteria and supporting literature
- Rule-out Diagnosis: Explains why PTSD and alcohol use disorder were eliminated as primary diagnoses
Preview
Case Study Possible Diagnosis
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Case Study Possible Diagnosis
Symptoms and Behavior
For the first two weeks after losing his son, Andrew Quinn experienced symptoms such as inability to concentrate, flashbacks, sadness, and social withdrawal. The major behavior was the increased alcohol intake, a behavior that his psychiatrist considered normal because he was struggling with grief. After six weeks, Quinn experienced symptoms that included guilt, insomnia, suicidal ideations, sadness, and feeling of worthlessness, fatigue, and loss of interest.
Diagnosis
From the presenting clinical symptoms and behaviors, there are three main possible diagnoses for Quinn’s condition. Firstly, it is vital to note that death can cause trauma and grief, which if not addressed can lead to severe mental health illnesses. Quinn’s loss could be a major trigger for the condition he experiences. For now, the possible diagnosis includes alcohol use disorder, moderate (303.90), posttraumatic stress disorder (309.81), and Major depressive disorder, recurrent episode, severe (296.33). It is not possible, at this point, to narrow down to one main diagnosis.
Justification
The rationale for posttraumatic stress disorder (309.81) diagnosis is because of the presenting symptom, especially the flashbacks and the trauma preceding the clinical symptoms. According to American Psychiatric Association (2013), other PTSD symptoms include social isolation, insomnia, guilt, loneliness, loss of interest, and substance use. Quinn has experienced these symptoms in the past six weeks. The alcohol use disorder, moderate (303.90) is indicated as a possible diagnosis because for the past few weeks, Quinn has increased his alcohol intake.