The association between major depressive disorders and personality disorders is an important factor to consider due to its clinical, therapeutic and prognostic consequences.

The aims of the present study were to determine the prevalence of comorbid personality disorders in patients with major depression, and to evaluate the relationship between some personality traits and outcome of depression.

A descriptive and comparative study was carried in the unit ‘E’ at the Razi Hospital. Only men were included. We collected the records of thirty six patients in whom the diagnosis of major depressive disorder was retained in axe I and personality disorder in axe II (as the diagnostic criteria of DSM IV). Assessment was based on demographic characteristics, medical history, clinical aspects of the index episode and outcome characteristics.

17 patients (47.22%) had personality disorder (which 23, 5% histrionic, 35,3% antisocial, 17,7% passive-dependent, 23,5% borderline). The patients with comorbid personality disorder had an earlier age at onset of their depression and more previous suicide attempts. Comorbid personality disorders were correlated to an impaired outcome, with more recurrences and more persistent symptoms.

The impact of personality disorder in the outcome of depression is evident. A taking into consideration of this comorbidity as well as a medicinal and psychotherapeutic care are necessary.