[The most frequent depressive disorders. Diagnosis, classification, symptoms and prognosis].

The most frequent depressive disorders--anxiety and panic syndrome, dysthymic (neurotic) illnesses and reactive depressive adjustment disorders--were classified according to the new international codes. It was also explained that theoretical aetiological assessment principles had to be replaced by duration and symptomatology as operational criteria. Further, a table was elaborated for diagnosing depressive syndromes from an intrapsychic, social and somatic standpoint. Epidemiological aspects of both German and international studies were discussed and prognostic factors highlighted.