The best conclusion about the dexamethasone suppression test (DST) for the diagnosis of depression is that
A) it is accurate.
B) it is effective but cannot differentiate bipolar disorder from major depression.
C) it promises to be an effective diagnostic tool in the future.
D) it is not useful as a diagnostic tool.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The most current research suggests that the DST is not a useful diagnostic tool for depression. While it was once thought to be accurate, further studies have shown that it has low sensitivity and specificity and cannot reliably differentiate between depressed and non-depressed individuals. It is also not helpful in distinguishing between different types of depression, such as bipolar disorder and major depression. Therefore, option D is the best conclusion.

The Best Conclusion About the Dexamethasone Suppression Test (DST) for the Diagnosis