CSF 5-HIAA, Suicide Intent and Hopelessness in the Prediction of Early Suicide in Male High-Risk Suicide Attempters

15 consecutive male suicide attempters admitted to a psychiatric ward at the Karolinska Hospital who were not receiving any treatment with antidepressants were diagnosed according to DSM-III, assessed with the Beck Suicide Intent Scale & the Beck Hopelessness Scale & submitted to lumbar puncture. 5 early suicides (within 2 years) were identified. Mean CSF 5-HIAA was identified in those who committed early suicide. Scores on the Beck scales did not distinguish suicides from survivors. (22 refs.)