Published online Aug 19, 2023. doi: 10.5498/wjp.v13.i8.593
Peer-review started: April 17, 2023
First decision: June 1, 2023
Revised: June 27, 2023
Accepted: July 14, 2023
Article in press: July 14, 2023
Published online: August 19, 2023
Processing time: 121 Days and 13.8 Hours
Depression is a prevalent psychiatric disorder among patients with end-stage renal disease. Hemodialysis patients have a significantly higher occurrence of depression than the general population. Similar to other chronic illnesses and the overall population, research indicates that depression in hemodialysis patients is linked to a diminished quality of life and heightened mortality.
To identify knowledge gaps and guide future research directions, it is crucial to comprehend the present status of research and areas of focus within the domains of depression and hemodialysis.
The objective of the research was to offer a comprehensive analysis of the existing research in the area of depression and hemodialysis through bibliometric analysis.
A search was performed in the Scopus database to find publications on the topic of dialysis and depression from 1970 to 2022. The acquired data underwent bibliometric analysis utilizing VOSviewer software version 1.6.9. This analysis encompassed visualization, co-occurrence, and examination of publication patterns in the field of dialysis and depression.
The number of publications addressing the correlation between dialysis and depression has increased substantially over the past 20 years. Prior to 2002, the yearly publication count was below three. Nonetheless, starting from 2013, there has been a remarkable acceleration in the publication rate, surpassing 46 articles per year, specifically focusing on dialysis and depression.
Three significant research topics have emerged, focusing on the varying occurrence of depression and anxiety based on gender, recognizing depression as a contributing factor to negative consequences, and assessing the effectiveness of therapies in reducing depression among individuals undergoing dialysis.
The objective of this study was to determine present patterns and focal points in the domain of dialysis and depression. This will aid in directing future research and updating clinical practices. Through the utilization of bibliometric analysis, the study offers a thorough summary of the literature concerning this subject matter. Consequently, it facilitates researchers and clinicians in keeping abreast of the most recent advancements in the field.