[Fatigue and loss of appetite as sign of depression in elderly patients].

A 77-year-old woman who, over a period of some months, had changed behavior was subsequently admitted to hospital with loss of weight, fatigue and dizziness. Despite intensive examination, no somatic explanation was found. After a month she was diagnosed with depression but discharged because she refused further treatment. She eventually died. It is important to consider that patients with first episode of major depressive disorder in late life (late-onset geriatric major depression), often present with other prominent symptoms than younger persons.