Childhood bipolar disorder: a clinical vignette

• Published in: Primary care companion for CNS disorders Vol. 7; no. 5; pp. 231 - 234
• Main Authors: Zylstra, Robert G, Defranco, Gina M, McKay, Julia B, Solomon, A Lee
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Physicians Postgraduate Press, Inc 2005
• Subjects: Original
• ISSN: 1523-5998; 2155-7780; 2155-7780
• DOI: 10.4088/pcc.v07n0504

Bipolar disorder in children and adolescents can easily be misdiagnosed, as symptom patterns overlap with other mood disorders and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and commonly differ from adult presentations. A detailed description of the child's behavioral history and previous treatment response is critical to accurate diagnosis. Although studies with children are limited, a number of psychopharmaceuticals have been shown to provide therapeutic benefit. Parent/caregiver and educational support are essential components of successful treatment. This article describes an 11-year-old patient with bipolar disorder and then summarizes related treatment issues and options.