Background: Depression, as a mood disorder, is one of the most common mental illnesses. Recent studies have been shown that in addition to the different neurotransmitters and life events, intrinsic factors such as the serum albumin, ferritin, cholesterol and blood sugar levels as well as some coagulation factors can also cause depression. The aim of this study was to determine the serum albumin, ferritin and cholesterol levels in hemodialysis patients with and without the major depressive disorders (MDD).

Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out on 100 hemodialysis patients referred to dialysis centers in Akhavan hospital (Kashan) during 2009-2010. The patients were evaluated for depression using the Beck questionnaire and clinical interview.

Results: Fifty percent of the patients (39% male and 56.9% female) had MDD. The mean values for the serum albumin, ferritin and cholesterol levels in hemodialysis patients with MDD were 3.88mg/l, 601.74 mmol/l and 161.56mg/dl and in hemodialysis patients without MDD 3 . 99mg/l, 579.68 mmol/l and 152.14 mg/dl , respectively . There was no significant difference between the two groups. There was a significant correlation between the associated diseases and place of residence with MDD (P=0.003 and P=0.032, respectively).

Conclusion: There is no association between the serum albumin, ferritin and cholesterol levels and MDD. Moreover, factors such as gender, the associated diseases especially hypertension and place of residence may be the more effective reasons for MDD in hemodialysis patients.