treatment-resistant
Describing conditions that do not respond adequately to standard, evidence-based interventions after appropriate trials.
Full Definition
Treatment-resistant refers to psychiatric conditions in children and adolescents that fail to show significant improvement despite adequate trials of appropriate, evidence-based treatments. This designation typically requires that standard treatments have been implemented with sufficient duration, intensity, and fidelity, and that factors affecting treatment response (such as adherence, comorbidity, and environmental factors) have been addressed. Treatment-resistant cases often require more intensive interventions, alternative treatment modalities, or referral to specialized programs. The term is used cautiously in pediatric populations, as apparent treatment resistance may reflect developmental factors, misdiagnosis, or inadequate implementation of interventions.
Usage
Usage note: Always hyphenate; use cautiously in pediatric contexts and specify criteria used to determine resistance.
In Context
- "The patient met criteria for treatment-resistant depression after failing two adequate antidepressant trials." — Clinical case review
- "Novel interventions are being investigated for treatment-resistant adolescent anxiety disorders." — Research proposal