How does the diagnosis of persistent depressive disorder differ from major depressive disorder?

Choice A reason: Persistent depressive disorder can begin at any age, including adolescence, not only late in life. Choice B reason: Hypomanic episodes are features of bipolar disorders, not persistent depressive disorder. Choice C reason: Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia) is characterized by a chronic, low-grade depressive state lasting at least two years in adults, differentiating it from the episodic nature of major depressive disorder. Choice D reason: Both persistent depressive disorder and major depressive disorder are diagnosed based on objective criteria, not solely subjective reports.