Bipolar disorder--focus on bipolar II disorder and mixed depression

Identifying predictive factors for mood recurrence in early-onset major mood disorders: A 4-year, multicenter, prospective cohort study

We investigate the predictive factors of the mood recurrence in patients with early-onset major mood disorders from a prospective observational cohort study from July 2015 to December 2019. A total of 495 patients were classified into three groups according to recurrence during the cohort observation period: recurrence group with (hypo)manic or mixed features (MMR), recurrence group with only depressive features (ODR), and no recurrence group (NR). As a result, the baseline diagnosis of bipolar disorder type 1 (BDI) and bipolar disorder type 2 (BDII), along with a familial history of BD, are strong predictors of the MMR. The discrepancies in wake-up times between weekdays and weekends, along with disrupted circadian rhythms, are identified as a notable predictor of ODR. Our findings confirm that we need to be aware of different predictors for each form of mood recurrences in patients with early-onset mood disorders. In clinical practice, we expect that information obtained from the initial assessment of patients with mood disorders, such as mood disorder type, family history of BD, regularity of wake-up time, and disruption of circadian rhythms, can help predict the risk of recurrence for each patient, allowing for early detection and timely intervention.

Latent Profile Analysis of Suicidal Ideation in Chinese Individuals with Bipolar Disorder

Individuals with bipolar disorder (BD) have a greater suicide risk than the general population. In this study, we employed latent profile analysis (LPA) to explore whether Chinese individuals with different phases of BD differed at the levels of suicidal ideation. We recruited 517 patients. Depressive symptoms were measured using the 24-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD-24), and manic symptoms were evaluated using the Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS). The extent of suicidal thoughts was determined through the Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation (BSSI). The scores of HAMD and YMRS were used to perform LPA. LPA categorized participants into three classes: one exhibiting severe depressive and mild manic symptomatology, another showing severe depressive and severe manic symptomatology, and the third one displaying severe depressive and intermediate manic symptomatology. Suicidal ideation levels were found to be remarkably elevated across all three classes. Additionally, the three classes showed no significant differences in terms of suicidal ideation. Our research confirms the link between depressive symptoms and suicide, independent of the manic symptoms. These findings carry meaning as they provide insight into the suicide risk profiles within different phases of BD.

Comparison of the efficacy of venlafaxine and bupropion in the treatment of depressive episode in patients with bipolar II disorder

Objective

Depressive disorders are common among those with bipolar disorder II (BD II) and may necessitate the use of antidepressants. Because of the lack of quality evidence, there is controversy about the use of antidepressants in BD II. The aim was to compare the efficacy of venlafaxine and bupropion in the treatment of depressive episode in BD II.

Materials and Methods

This randomized triple-blind clinical trial study was conducted on patient with depressive episode of BD II (based on diagnostic and statistical manual of disorders [DSM-V] criteria) referred to the specialized clinic of Golestan Hospital. A total of 40 patients were randomly divided into two groups of receiving venlafaxine (75 mg/day) or bupropion (100 mg/day) for 4 weeks. At the end of the intervention, the effectiveness of treatment was assessed using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS).

Results

The results of this study showed that the HDRS score before treatment (P = 0.43) and after treatment (P = 0.15) was not significantly different between the two groups. HDRS score in both groups significantly decreased after 4 weeks (P < 0.0001). Although the rate of decrease in depression score was more in venlafaxine than in bupropion, these differences were not significant (% 36.7 ± 21.8 vs. % 45.3 ± 17.9, P value = 0.17).

Conclusion

Our study showed that short-term (4-weeks) treatments of venlafaxine and bupropion were equally effective and could be a safe and effective antidepressant monotherapy for BD II major depression. It is suggested that more studies be conducted with larger sample size and over longer periods of time in a multicenter manner.

Bipolar disorder in the International Classification of Diseases-Eleventh version: A review of the changes, their basis, and usefulness

The World Health Organization’s 11^th revision of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) including the chapter on mental disorders has come into effect this year. This review focuses on the “Bipolar or Related Disorders” section of the ICD-11 draft. It describes the benchmarks for the new version, particularly the foremost principle of clinical utility. The alterations made to the diagnosis of bipolar disorder (BD) are evaluated on their scientific basis and clinical utility. The change in the diagnostic requirements for manic and hypomanic episodes has been much debated. Whether the current criteria have achieved an optimum balance between sensitivity and specificity is still not clear. The ICD-11 definition of depressive episodes is substantially different, but the lack of empirical support for the changes has meant that the reliability and utility of bipolar depression are relatively low. Unlike the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5^th edition (DSM-5), the ICD-11 has retained the category of mixed episodes. Although the concept of mixed episodes in the ICD-11 is not perfect, it appears to be more inclusive than the DSM-5 approach. Additionally, there are some uncertainties about the guidelines for the subtypes of BD and cyclothymic disorder. The initial results on the reliability and clinical utility of BD are promising, but the newly created diagnostic categories also appear to have some limitations. Although further improvement and research are needed, the focus should now be on facing the challenges of implementation, dissemination, and education and training in the use of these guidelines.

Comparing the efficacy of aripiprazole as an add-on to valproate with other second-generation antipsychotics in acute mania symptoms in manic patients in Iran

BACKGROUND

Given the great importance of treating patients with bipolar disorder, the aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of aripiprazole with other second-generation antipsychotics in relieving acute symptoms of mania.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study, 50 patients with bipolar I disorder, manic episode, were divided into two groups receiving aripiprazole (n = 25) and other second-generation antipsychotics (risperidone, olanzapine, and quetiapine) (n = 25) for 6 weeks. The disease severity was evaluated and compared according to YMRS and CGI criteria.

RESULTS

The mean severity of mania according to YMRS and CGI, at week 0 in comparison with weeks 2, 4 and 6 in both groups was significantly different (p < 0.0001) and the treatment with Aripiprazole at week 2 (p < 0.0001) and 4 (p = 0.0002) was significantly better than the other second-generation antipsychotics. The two groups also showed an overall improvement in CGI-based results at weeks 4 and 6 (p = 0.002). In addition, the efficacy index for aripiprazole at weeks 4 (p = 0.011) and 6 (p < 0.0001) as well as disease improvement in the second (p < 0.0001) and fourth (p = 0.026) weeks after treatment were better than the other second-generation antipsychotics.

CONCLUSIONS

Aripiprazole and other second-generation antipsychotics, 2 weeks after initiation of treatment, significantly reduced mania severity in patients with bipolar disorder, however, aripiprazole seems to be more efficient and faster for controlling mania in patients with bipolar disorder.KEY POINTSAripiprazole and other second-generation antipsychotics, 2 weeks after initiation of treatment, significantly reduced mania severity in patients with bipolar disorder.Comparison between the two drugs, aripiprazole showed a more beneficial role in the second and fourth weeks than second-generation antipsychotics.Due to the fact that the possible mechanisms involved in the role of aripiprazole have not been considered compared to other antipsychotics in patients with bipolar disorder, there is a need for more extensive studies in this field.

Clinical and psychopathological correlates of duration of untreated illness (DUI) in affective spectrum disorders

Affective disorders represent psychopathological entities lying on a continuum, characterized by high prevalence and functional impairment. A delay in treatment initiation might increase the burden associated with affective spectrum disorders. The present study was aimed at analyzing the correlates of a long duration of untreated illness (DUI) in these conditions. We recruited subjects diagnosed with affective disorders, both in- and outpatients, and collected information concerning socio-demographic, clinical, and psychopathological characteristics. Long DUI was defined according to previous research criteria as >2 years for Bipolar Disorders or >1 year for Depressive Disorders. Bivariate analyses were performed to compare subjects with a long and short DUI (p<0.05). A logistic regression was operated to evaluate the correlates of long DUI. In the present sample (n=135), 34.1% (n=46) subjects showed a long DUI. This subgroup presented with more physical comorbidities (p=0.003), higher body mass index (BMI) (p<0.001), more frequent anxiety onset (p=0.018), younger onset age (p=0.042), and more severe depressive symptoms (Hamilton Depression Rating Scale item 1-depressed mood (p=0.032) and item 2-guilt feelings (p=0.018)). At the logistic regression, higher severity of depressed mood (OR 1.568), higher BMI (OR 1.264), and younger age at onset (OR 0.935) were associated with long DUI. The present study confirmed a possible role of DUI as a construct underpinning higher clinical severity in affective spectrum disorders, possibly linked to worse illness course and unfavorable outcomes. Intervention strategies targeting physical comorbidities and depressive symptoms severity may decrease disease burden in subjects with a long DUI.

Controversies In The Pharmacotherapy Of Adolescent Depression

BACKGROUND

Although fluoxetine and, in the USA, escitalopram are approved for depression in adolescence, substantial concern surrounds antidepressant use in youth. Major controversies regarding efficacy and safety (increased suicidality).

INTRODUCTION

The cathegory of depression is very broad and overinclusive, in terms of etiology, role of psychosocial adversities severity, episodicity, presentation, relationship with bipolarity. This heterogeneity, not fully controlled considered in Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs), may account for the disappointing results on both efficacy and safety.

METHOD

Based on the available literature, we will address the following topics: a) controversies regarding the definition of depression as a unique homogeneous condition with a unique type of pharmacological treatment; b) controversies about the interpretation of data from Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) on the efficacy of pharmacological treatments in adolescent depression; c) the interpretation of data regarding the safety of antidepressant treatment in adolescent depression, particularly in terms of increased suicidal risk.

RESULTS

According to RCTs, antidepressants are minimally to moderately more effective than placebo, principally based on very high placebo responses, and only fluoxetine showed more evidence of efficacy. These differences in meta-analyses are sometimes statistically, but not clinically significant. Depression is a heterogeneous condition in terms of etiology, role of psychosocial adversities severity, episodicity, presentation, relationship with bipolarity. This heterogeneity may partly explain the low drug-placebo difference and the high placebo response (possibly related to a high level of natural recovery of the adolescent depression). In the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)-funded studies, including a lower number of study sites and more reliable enrollment procedures, lower placebo response rates and greater group differences between medication and placebo were found. Robust evidence supports an increased risk of emergent suicidality after starting antidepressants. A clear age effect on suicidal risk after antidepressants is supported by a comprehensive meta-analysis, showing that suicidal risk increased with decreasing age, being markedly greater in subjects aged between 18 and 25 years. However, the term suicidality is too broad, as it includes suicidal ideation, suicidal attempts, and completed suicide, with a hugely wide range of severity and pervasiveness. If emergent suicidality should be actively and carefully explored, empirical evidence, albeit weak, suggests that combined pharmacotherapy (antidepressant and/or lithium) associated with psychotherapy may be helpful in reducing pretreatment suicidal ideation and suicidal risk.

DISCUSSION

Moderate to severe depression should be treated with psychotherapy and/or fluoxetine, the best-supported medication, and treatment-resistant adolescents should always receive combined treatment with psychotherapy. Suicidal ideation, particularly with a plan, should be actively explored before starting an antidepressant, as a reason for the closest monitoring. Emergent suicidality after starting antidepressants, as well as antidepressant-related activation, should also be closely monitored and may lead to antidepressant discontinuation. Although no response to pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy may occur in up to 40% of depressed adolescents, possible predictors or mediators of poorer response in adolescents are uncertain, and only a few studies support possible treatment strategies. Finally, studies exploring the efficacy of antidepressants in specific depression subtypes, i.e., based on prevalent psychopathological dimensions (apathy, withdrawal, impulsivity), are warranted.

GABRB2, a key player in neuropsychiatric disorders and beyond

The GABA receptors represent the main inhibitory system in the central nervous system that ensure synaptogenesis, neurogenesis, and the regulation of neuronal plasticity and learning. GABAA receptors are pentameric in structure and belong to the Cys-loop superfamily. The GABRB2 gene, located on chromosome 5q34, encodes the β2 subunit that combines with the α and γ subunits to form the major subtype of GABAA receptors, which account for 43% of all GABAA receptors in the mammalian brain. Each subunit probably consists of an extracellular N-terminal domain, four membrane-spanning segments, a large intracellular loop between TM3 and TM4, and an extracellular C-terminal domain. Alternative splicing of the RNA transcript of the GABRB2 gene gives rise at least to four long and short isoforms with dissimilar electrophysiological properties. Furthermore, GABRB2 is imprinted and subjected to epigenetic regulation and positive selection. It has been associated with schizophrenia first in Han Chinese, and subsequently validated in other populations. Gabrb2 knockout mice also exhibited schizophrenia-like behavior and neuroinflammation that were ameliorated by the antipsychotic drug risperidone. GABRB2 was also associated with other neuropsychiatric disorders including bipolar disorder, epilepsy, autism spectrum disorder, Alzheimer's disease, frontotemporal dementia, substance dependence, depression, internet gaming disorder, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Recently, it has been postulated that GABRB2 might be a potential marker for different cancer types. As GABRB2 has a pivotal role in the central nervous system and is increasingly recognized to contribute to human diseases, further understanding of its structure and function may expedite the generation of new therapeutic approaches.

Distinguish bipolar and major depressive disorder in adolescents based on multimodal neuroimaging: Results from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development study®

Background

Major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder in adolescents are prevalent and are associated with cognitive impairment, executive dysfunction, and increased mortality. Early intervention in the initial stages of major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder can significantly improve personal health.

Methods

We collected 309 samples from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development study, including 116 adolescents with bipolar disorder, 64 adolescents with major depressive disorder, and 129 healthy adolescents, and employed a support vector machine to develop classification models for identification. We developed a multimodal model, which combined functional connectivity of resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging and four anatomical measures of structural magnetic resonance imaging (cortical thickness, area, volume, and sulcal depth). We measured the performances of both multimodal and single modality classifiers.

Results

The multimodal classifiers showed outstanding performance compared with all five single modalities, and they are 100% for major depressive disorder versus healthy controls, 100% for bipolar disorder versus healthy control, 98.5% (95% CI: 95.4–100%) for major depressive disorder versus bipolar disorder, 100% for major depressive disorder versus depressed bipolar disorder and the leave-one-site-out analysis results are 77.4%, 63.3%, 79.4%, and 81.7%, separately.

Conclusions

The study shows that multimodal classifiers show high classification performances. Moreover, cuneus may be a potential biomarker to differentiate major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and healthy adolescents. Overall, this study can form multimodal diagnostic prediction workflows for clinically feasible to make more precise diagnose at the early stage and potentially reduce loss of personal pain and public society.

Circadian rhythm disruptions: A possible link of bipolar disorder and endocrine comorbidities

Epidemiological studies have demonstrated an association between bipolar disorder (BP) and endocrine diseases. Further, circadian rhythm disruptions may be a potential common pathophysiological mechanism of both disorders. This review provides a brief overview of the molecular mechanisms of circadian rhythms, as well as roles circadian rhythms play in BP and common endocrine comorbidities such as diabetes and thyroid disease. Treatments targeting the circadian system, both pharmacological and non-pharmacological, are also discussed. The hope is to elicit new interest to the importance of circadian system in BP and offer new entry points and impetus to the development of medicine.

Reliability and validity of the Chinese version of the CUDOS-M in patients with mood disorders: A multicenter study across China

BACKGROUND

A useful scale for identification of mixed features in major depressive episodes (MDE) patients is urgent in China. This study aimed to evaluate the reliability and validity of the Chinese version of the Clinically Useful Depression Outcome Scale supplemented with questions for the DSM-5 mixed features specifier (Chinese-CUDOS-M) in MDE patients.

METHODS

A total of 152 MDE patients were recruited and assessed using Chinese-CUDOS-M, Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and 32-item Hypomania Checklist (HCL-32). Principal component analysis (PCA) and exploratory factor analysis (EFA) were conducted. The predictive validity was calculated by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC).

RESULTS

The Cronbach's alpha of Chinese-CUDOS-M was 0.85. PCA showed three common factors with eigenvalue greater than 1; the eigenvalue of factor I was 4.96, with 38.1% of variance explanation. Chinese-CUDOS-M depression subscale was associated with PHQ-9 (r = 0.83, p<0.01), and manic subscale was associated with HCL-32 (r = 0.73, p< 0.01). AUROC of the Chinese-CUDOS-M for patients with mixed depression was 0.90 (95%CI: 0.85-0.95), with a cut-off value of 7, sensitivity of 0.95, and specificity of 0.73. Furthermore, AUROC was 0.88 in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD), with a cut-off value of 7, sensitivity of 0.96, and specificity of 0.71. AUROC was 0.92 in bipolar disorder (BD) depression patients, with a cut-off value of 9, sensitivity of 0.89, and specificity of 0.87.

CONCLUSION

Our study shows that the Chinese-CUDOS-M can identify mixed features in both MDD and BD depression with satisfactory reliability and validity.

In light of the DSM-5 dimensional model of personality: Borderline personality disorder at the crossroads with the bipolar spectrum

BACKGROUND

State-of-the-art research highlights that borderline personality disorder (PD) and bipolar spectrum disorders have clinical characteristics in common, which imply uncertainty in differential diagnoses. Although there is a growing body of literature on the DSM-5 dimensional model of personality disorder, its discriminative features between these clinical samples are still understudied. In this study, we seek to identify the best set of predictors that differentiate between borderline PD and bipolar spectrum, based on pathological and normative personality traits and symptoms.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study of three clinical samples: 1) Borderline PD group of 63 participants; 2) Major depressive disorder group of 89 participants; 3) Bipolar disorder group of 65 participants. Self-reported assessment: Personality Inventory for DSM-5; Brief Symptom Inventory; FFM Inventory. A series of one-way ANOVAs and logistic regression analyses were computed.

RESULTS

The major set of data emerging as common discriminants of borderline PD across the bipolar spectrum are unusual beliefs & experiences, paranoid ideation, obsession-compulsion and extraversion. Depressivity (OR: 34.95) and impulsivity (OR: 22.35) pathological traits displayed the greatest predictive values in the differential diagnosis.

LIMITATIONS

The small size of the samples; a lack of data from participants' previous clinical history.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings support the DSM-5 pathological traits as differentiating borderline PD through bipolar spectrum, and reinforcing the joint use of symptom-related pathological functioning and normal-range personality traits. Alongside the bipolar spectrum, borderline pathology sheds light upon a hypothetical overlap along the depressive and schizoaffective/schizophrenia spectra, representing a borderland space at a crossroads with the psychopathology of a meta-spectrum.

Trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1): Potential application in mood disorders: A systematic review

There is a need for innovation with respect to therapeutics in psychiatry. Available evidence indicates that the trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR1) agonist SEP-363856 is promising, as it improves measures of cognitive and reward function in schizophrenia. Hedonic and cognitive impairments are transdiagnostic and constitute major burdens in mood disorders. Herein, we systematically review the behavioural and genetic literature documenting the role of TAAR1 in reward and cognitive function, and propose a mechanistic model of TAAR1's functions in the brain. Notably, TAAR1 activity confers antidepressant-like effects, enhances attention and response inhibition, and reduces compulsive reward seeking without impairing normal function. Further characterization of the responsible mechanisms suggests ion-homeostatic, metabolic, neurotrophic, and anti-inflammatory enhancements in the limbic system. Multiple lines of evidence establish the viability of TAAR1 as a biological target for the treatment of mood disorders. Furthermore, the evidence suggests a role for TAAR1 in reward and cognitive function, which is attributed to a cascade of events that are relevant to the cellular integrity and function of the central nervous system.

Antidepressants in bipolar disorder: Analysis of correlates overall, and in BD-I and BD-II subsamples

BACKGROUND

Clinical therapeutic approaches to Bipolar Disorders (BDs) include diverse pharmacotherapies, targeting different symptomatic BD presentations. To date, guidelines about pharmacological treatment of BDs have focused on short-term treatment of mood episodes, at the expense of longer-term treatment, especially for (the most common) predominantly depressive polarity patients.

METHODS

A database of BD-I and BD-II patients was collected between 2013 and 2019 at the University Psychiatric Clinic of Ospedale Policlinico and Ospedale Luigi Sacco of Milan. Only patients in euthymic phases (no current mood episode) were included in the study. We then analyzed socio-demographic and clinical characteristic overall and in the subgroup BD-I and BD-II, comparing patients taking vs. not taking ADs.

RESULTS

Our results showed that approximately 1/3 of BD patients between acute episodes took ADs, also among patients from the subgroup with BD-I, especially those first presenting with a depressive episodes, and those with a most recent depressive (as opposed to elevated, irritable, or mixed) polarity episode.

LIMITATIONS

Although patients included in our study were primarily in follow up for Bipolar Disorder, use of ADs could be explained by other comorbidities, such as Anxiety or Eating Disorders.

CONCLUSIONS

These data shed light on how managing depressive symptoms is a very important aspect of treating BDs, highlighting the need for wider and more specific studies on the use of ADs in BDs.

A Systematic Review of the Clinical Use of Gabapentin and Pregabalin in Bipolar Disorder

Despite its prevalence and disease burden, several chasms still exist with regard to the pharmacotherapy of bipolar disorder (BD). Polypharmacy is commonly encountered as a significant proportion of patients remain symptomatic, and the management of the depressive phase of the illness is a particular challenge. Gabapentin and pregabalin have often been prescribed off-label in spite of a paucity of evidence and clinical practice guidelines to support its use. This systematic review aimed to synthesize the available human clinical trials and inform evidence-based pharmacological approaches to BD management. A total of six randomized, controlled trials (RCTs) and 13 open-label trials involving the use of gabapentin and pregabalin in BD patients were reviewed. Overall, the studies show that gabapentin and its related drug pregabalin do not have significant clinical efficacy as either monotherapy or adjunctive therapy for BD. Gabapentin and pregabalin are probably ineffective for acute mania based on the findings of RCT, with only small open-label trials to support its potential adjunctive role. However, its effects on the long-term outcomes of BD remain to be elucidated. The evidence base was significantly limited by the generally small sample sizes and the trials also had heterogeneous designs and generally high risk of bias.

Prevalence and profile of depressive mixed state in patients with autism spectrum disorder

PURPOSE

The present study aimed to clarify prevalence and profile of depressive mixed state (DMX) in depressed individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology Self-Report Japanese version (QIDS-SR-J) and global assessment of functioning (GAF) were administered to 182 consecutive patients (36 ASD and 146 non-ASD subjects) with a major depressive episode (MDE). DMX was categorically diagnosed according to the criteria for mixed depression (MD) by Benazzi and mixed features (MF) specifier by DSM-5. Severity of DMX was assessed by the self-administered 12-item questionnaire for DMX (DMX-12). Clinical backgrounds and incidence/severity of DMX were compared between the ASD and non-ASD groups.

RESULTS

ASD patients showed higher prevalence of MD than non-ASD patients (36.1% versus 18.5%). Mood lability, distractibility, impulsivity, aggression, irritability, dysphoria and risk-taking behavior as mixed symptoms were more prevalent in ASD patients than those in non-ASD patients, together with higher scores of total DMX-12 and its disruptive emotion/behavior cluster. Multiple regression analysis revealed significant contribution of ASD to the disruptive emotion/behavior symptoms.

CONCLUSION

Careful monitoring and management of potential DMX are warranted in depressed ASD individuals.

Comorbidities, Depression Severity, and Circadian Rhythms Disturbances as Clinical Correlates of Duration of Untreated Illness in Affective Disorders

Background and Objectives: Affective disorders, namely bipolar (BDs) and depressive disorders (DDs) are characterized by high prevalence and functional impairment. From a dimensional point of view, BDs and DDs can be considered as psychopathological entities lying on a continuum. A delay in treatment initiation might increase the burden associated with affective disorders. The aim of this study is to analyze the correlates of a long duration of untreated illness (DUI) in these conditions. Materials and Methods: Subjects with BDs and DDs, both in- and outpatients, were recruited. Long DUI was defined according to previous research criteria as >2 years for BDs or >1 year for DDs. Socio-demographic, clinical and psychopathological characteristics of the recruited subjects were collected. Bivariate analyses were performed to compare subjects with a long and short DUI (p < 0.05). Results: In our sample (n = 61), 34.4% of subjects presented a long DUI. A long DUI was significantly associated with longer overall illness duration (p = 0.022) and a higher rate of psychiatric (p = 0.048) and physical comorbidities (p = 0.023). As for psychopathological features, depressive symptoms were more severe in the long DUI subgroup, as demonstrated by a higher score at the Clinical Global Impression-severity of depression (p = 0.012) item and at the anxiety/depression factor of the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (p = 0.041). Furthermore, subjects with a long DUI displayed more severe disruption of circadian rhythms, as evaluated by the Biological Rhythms Interview for Assessment in Neuropsychiatry total (p = 0.044) and social domain (p = 0.005) scores and by the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale diurnal variation items (18a: p = 0.029, 18b: p = 0.047). Conclusions: A long DUI may underpin higher clinical severity, as well as worse illness course and unfavorable prognosis in affective disorders. Intervention strategies targeting comorbidities, depressive symptoms and circadian rhythms may decrease disease burden in subjects with a long DUI.

The 12-Item Self-Rating Questionnaire for Depressive Mixed State (DMX-12) for Screening of Mixed Depression and Mixed Features

For simultaneous screening of mixed features (MF) by DSM-5 and mixed depression (MD) by Benazzi, useful symptoms were extracted from our 12-item dimensional scale for depressive mixed state (DMX-12). Subjects were 190 consecutive cases with major depressive episode (MDE) who visited our clinic. Associations between symptomatological combinations of the DMX-12 and MF or MD were analyzed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC). The rate of MF was 4.2% while that of MD was 22.6%. Eight symptoms (overreactivity, inner tension, racing/crowded thought, impulsivity, irritability, aggression, risk-taking behavior, and dysphoria) with their AUC > 0.6 for ROC curves were specially focused on distinguishing patients with MF or MD from non-mixed patients. By using these 8 symptoms, 40.5% of the overall patients were screened as positive at the same cut-off value (≥13) for both MD and MF. The AUC of ROC curve and sensitivity/specificity were well balanced together with sufficient negative predictive values. The abovementioned 8 symptoms seem to be helpful for primary screening and negative check of DMX with considerable severity during MDE.

Improving treatment decision-making in bipolar II disorder: a phase II randomised controlled trial of an online patient decision-aid

BACKGROUND

Many patients with bipolar II disorder (BPII) prefer to be more informed and involved in their treatment decision-making than they currently are. Limited knowledge and involvement in one's treatment is also likely to compromise optimal BPII management. This Phase II RCT aimed to evaluate the acceptability, feasibility, and safety of a world-first patient decision-aid website (e-DA) to improve treatment decision-making regarding options for relapse prevention in BPII. The e-DA's potential efficacy in terms of improving quality of the decision-making process and quality of the decision made was also explored.

METHODS

The e-DA was based on International Patient Decision-Aid Standards and developed via an iterative co-design process. Adults with BPII diagnosis (n = 352) were recruited through a specialist outpatient clinical service and the social media of leading mental health organisations. Participants were randomised (1:1) to receive standard information with/without the e-DA (Intervention versus Control). At baseline (T0), post-treatment decision (T1) and at 3 months' post-decision follow-up (T2), participants completed a series of validated and purpose-designed questionnaires. Self-report and analytics data assessed the acceptability (e.g., perceived ease-of-use, usefulness; completed by Intervention participants only), safety (i.e., self-reported bipolar and/or anxiety symptoms), and feasibility of using the e-DA (% accessed). For all participants, questionnaires assessed constructs related to quality of the decision-making process (e.g., decisional conflict) and quality of the decision made (e.g., knowledge of treatment options and outcomes).

RESULTS

Intervention participants endorsed the e-DA as acceptable and feasible to use (82.1-94.6% item agreement); most self-reported using the e-DA either selectively (51.8%; relevant sections only) or thoroughly (34%). Exploratory analyses indicated the e-DA's potential efficacy to improve decision-making quality; most between-group standardised mean differences (SMD) were small-to-moderate. The largest potential effects were detected for objective treatment knowledge (- 0.69, 95% CIs - 1.04, - 0.33 at T1; and - 0.57, 95% CIs - 0.99,-0.14 at T2), decisional regret at T2 (0.42, 95% CIs 0.01, 0.84), preparation for decision-making at T1 (- 0.44, 95% CIs - 0.81, - 0.07), and the Decisional Conflict Scale Uncertainty subscale (0.42, 95% CIs 0.08, 0.08) and Total (0.36, 95% CIs 0.30, 0.69) scores, with all SMDs favouring the Intervention over the Control conditions. Regarding safety, e-DA use was not associated with worse bipolar symptoms or anxiety.

CONCLUSION

The e-DA appears to be acceptable, feasible, safe and potentially efficacious at improving patients' decision-making about BPII treatment. Findings also support the future adoption of the e-DA into patient care for BPII to foster treatment decisions based on the best available evidence and patient preferences.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12617000840381 (prospectively registered 07/06/2017).

La dépression mixte

La dépression mixte correspond à un syndrome dépressif avec des éléments d’activation psychomotrice de la lignée hypomaniaque. Cette situation pathologique reste mal connue des cliniciens alors qu’elle est présente chez 10 à 20 % des patients dépressifs. Sa faible reconnaissance a été probablement liée à l’absence de ce concept dans les classifications internationales. Le DSM-5 a proposé une refonte de la définition des états mixtes, dépassant une conception particulièrement restrictive dans le DSM-IV. Des « caractéristiques mixtes » peuvent servir de spécificateur pour un épisode de trouble de l’humeur, dépressif ou maniaque. La dépression avec caractéristique mixte est définie par la présence de trois symptômes de la lignée maniaque associée à la dépression, hors agitation, distractibilité ou irritabilité. L’approche proposée par le DSM-5 manque de cohérence clinique et est finalement assez difficile à appliquer. Surtout elle ne permet pas d’identifier la majorité des dépressions mixtes. En effet les formes les plus fréquentes bien décrites dans les travaux de Koukopoulos ou Bennazzi se caractérisent par des symptômes hypomanes peu spécifiques comme l’irritabilité et l’agitation psychomotrice (ou parfois surtout l’absence de ralentissement psychomoteur) et des symptômes hypomanes limités à l’activation psychique qui s’exprime notamment à travers la tachypsychie subjective (avec des caractéristiques phénoménologiques différentes de celle de l’hypomanie) et la pression du discours. Les patients avec une dépression mixte sont particulièrement à risque de conduites suicidaires, d’abus de substances mais surtout de résistance thérapeutique car, même si on manque d’essais cliniques à leur sujet, ces patients non seulement nécessitent la prescription de thymorégulateurs mais aussi le plus souvent un arrêt des antidépresseurs qui ont souvent induit le caractère mixte de la dépression.

Temporal Structure of Mixed States: Does Sensitization Link Life Course to Episodes?

Susceptibility to combined depressive and manic syndromes correlates strongly with arousal-related symptoms including impulsivity, anxiety and agitation. This relationship to a driven, "mixed" activation-depression state, generated by a life-long process, was described in classical times. Course of illness in mixed states includes increased episode frequency, duration, earlier onset, and association with addiction- and trauma/stress-related disorders. Mixed episodes have catecholamine and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical activity increased beyond nonmixed states of similar symptom severity. These properties resemble behavioral sensitization, where salient, survival-related stimuli (traumatic or rewarding) can generate persistently exaggerated responses with disrupted arousal and reward, with potential for suicide and other severe consequences.

Pharmacogenomic Characterization in Bipolar Spectrum Disorders

The holistic approach of personalized medicine, merging clinical and molecular characteristics to tailor the diagnostic and therapeutic path to each individual, is steadily spreading in clinical practice. Psychiatric disorders represent one of the most difficult diagnostic challenges, given their frequent mixed nature and intrinsic variability, as in bipolar disorders and depression. Patients misdiagnosed as depressed are often initially prescribed serotonergic antidepressants, a treatment that can exacerbate a previously unrecognized bipolar condition. Thanks to the use of the patient's genomic profile, it is possible to recognize such risk and at the same time characterize specific genetic assets specifically associated with bipolar spectrum disorder, as well as with the individual response to the various therapeutic options. This provides the basis for molecular diagnosis and the definition of pharmacogenomic profiles, thus guiding therapeutic choices and allowing a safer and more effective use of psychotropic drugs. Here, we report the pharmacogenomics state of the art in bipolar disorders and suggest an algorithm for therapeutic regimen choice.

Differential Diagnosis of Bipolar II Disorder and Borderline Personality Disorder

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Differentiating bipolar (BP) disorders (in particular BP II) from borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a common diagnostic dilemma. We sought to critically examine recent studies that considered clinical differences between BP II and BPD, which might advance their delineation.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent studies focused on differentiating biological parameters-genetics, epigenetics, diurnal rhythms, structural and functional neuroimaging-with indicative differences not yet sufficient to guide diagnosis. Key differentiating factors include family history, developmental antecedents, illness course, phenomenological differences in mood states, personality style and relationship factors. Less differentiating factors include impulsivity, neuropsychological profiles, gender distribution, comorbidity and treatment response. This review details parameters offering differentiation of BP II from BPD and should assist in resolving a frequent diagnostic dilemma. Future studies should specifically examine the BP II subtype directly with BPD, which would aid in sharpening the distinction between the disorders.

Power behind the throne: A clinical trial simulation study evaluating the impact of controllable design factors on the power of antidepressant trials

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the impact of controllable design factors on the power of antidepressants trials.

METHODS

Using clinical trial simulation (CTS), we analyzed the combined impact on the power of trials of controllable design factors (sample size, outcome metrics, and disease severity at inclusion) and uncontrollable parameters (heterogeneity of diseases labeled "depression" in the source population and selective effects of drugs on items of the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale [HDRS], the most used outcome measurement tool). We elaborated 3,840 scenarios calibrated with real data, particularly the publication bias-corrected effect size.

RESULTS

For an effect size of 0.26, simulations revealed that in trials with ≤650 participants, power was less than 80%. Among the tested outcome metrics, the "remission" outcome provided more robustness for sample heterogeneity, whereas the continuous outcome "HDRS changes" provided more robustness when investigating drugs with a selective effect on the HDRS items. For the "remission" outcome, the power of trials increased with increasing HDRS threshold at inclusion but decreased with the outcomes "response" and "HDRS changes. Drugs with a selective effect on the HDRS items could not reach the same power as for the reference drug.

CONCLUSION

Our study allows for drawing recommendations to avoid underpowered trials of antidepressants.

Development of the 12-item questionnaire for quantitative assessment of depressive mixed state (DMX-12)

BACKGROUND

Conventional categorical criteria have limitations in assessing the prevalence and severity of depressive mixed state (DMX). Thus, we have developed a new scale for screening and quantification of DMX and examined the symptomatological structure and severity of DMX in individuals with major depressive episode (MDE).

METHODS

Subjects were 154 patients with MDE (57 males and 97 females; age 13-83 years). Our original Japanese version of the self-administered 12-item questionnaire to assess DMX (DMX-12), together with the Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology Self-Report Japanese version (QIDS-SR-J) and global assessment of functioning, were administered to each participant. The symptomatological structure of the DMX-12 was examined by exploratory factor analysis. Multiple regression analyses were used to analyze factors contributing to the DMX-12 scale. The relationships of this scale with categorical diagnoses (mixed depression by Benazzi and mixed features by DSM-5) were also investigated.

RESULTS

A three-factor model of the DMX-12 was extracted from exploratory factor analysis, namely, "spontaneous instability", "vulnerable responsiveness", and "disruptive emotion/behavior". Multiple regression analyses revealed that age was negatively correlated with total DMX-12 score, while bipolarity and the QIDS-SR-J score were positively correlated. A higher score on the disruptive emotion/behavior subscale was observed in patients with mixed depression and mixed features.

CONCLUSION

The DMX-12 seems to be useful for screening DMX in conjunction with conventional categorical diagnoses. Severely depressed younger subjects with potential bipolarity are more likely to develop DMX. The disruptive emotion/behavior subscale of the DMX-12 may be the most helpful in distinguishing patients with DMX from non-mixed patients.

Phase II Randomised Controlled Trial of a patient decision-aid website to improve treatment decision-making for young adults with bipolar II disorder: A feasibility study protocol

BACKGROUND/AIMS

This paper describes the protocol for a feasibility study for a parallel Phase II randomised control trial (RCT) aiming to evaluate a novel decision-aid website (e-DA) to support young adults with bipolar II disorder (BPII), and their families.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The e-DA was developed according to the International Patient Decision-Aid Standards (IPDAS). Participants will be 40 young adults (18-30 years) referred to a specialist outpatient clinical facility, who have a confirmed clinical diagnosis of BPII. Participants will be randomised (1:1) to receive access to the clinic's online factsheets/website with (Intervention) or without (Control) the e-DA. A series of validated and purpose-designed questionnaires will be administered at baseline (T0), immediately post-decision (T1), and 3 months post-decision (T2). Questionnaires assess key decision-making constructs related to decision-making quality, including: decisional conflict, subjective and objective treatment knowledge, values-based informed choice, concordance between preferred/actual decision-making involvement, preparation for decision-making, and decisional regret. Self-report symptom severity and anxiety will ascertain the safety of e-DA use. The focus of analyses will be to assess effect sizes, in order to guide a future RCT.

DISCUSSION

This feasibility study will evaluate a world first, evidence-based online decision-support resource, a DA website, for young adults with BPII and their families who are deciding on treatment options for relapse prevention. Findings will determine the e-DA's feasibility in RCT procedures (i.e., outpatient clinical setting) and provide estimates of effect sizes on outcomes related to improving treatment decision-making and patient outcomes in a sample of potential end-users, compared to usual care.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This trial is registered with the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR) - ACTRN12617000840381.

Specificity in Etiology of Subtypes of Bipolar Disorder: Evidence From a Swedish Population-Based Family Study

BACKGROUND

Uncertainty remains whether bipolar I disorder (BDI) and bipolar II disorder (BDII) differ etiologically. We used a population-based family sample to examine the etiological boundaries between BDI and BDII by assessing their familial aggregation/coaggregation and by assessing the coaggregation between them and schizophrenia, depression, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, eating disorders, autism spectrum disorder, substance use disorders, anxiety disorders, and personality disorders.

METHODS

By linking Swedish national registers, we established a population-based cohort (N = 15,685,511) and identified relatives with different biological relationships. Odds ratios (ORs) were used to measure the relative risk of BDI and BDII in relatives of individuals diagnosed with BDI (n = 4309) and BDII (n = 4178). The heritability for BDI and BDII and the genetic correlation across psychiatric disorders were estimated by variance decomposition analysis.

RESULTS

Compared with the general population, the OR of BDI was 17.0 (95% confidence interval [CI] 13.1-22.0) in first-degree relatives of BDI patients, higher than that of BDII patients (OR 9.8, 95% CI 7.7-12.5). The ORs of BDII were 13.6 (95% CI 10.2-18.2) in first-degree relatives of BDII patients and 9.8 (95% CI 7.7-12.4) in relatives of BDI patients. The heritabilities for BDI and BDII were estimated at 57% (95% CI 32%-79%) and 46% (95% CI 21%-67%), respectively, with a genetic correlation estimated as 0.78 (95% CI 0.36-1.00). The familial coaggregation of other psychiatric disorders, in particular schizophrenia, showed different patterns for BDI and BDII.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest a distinction between BDI and BDII in etiology, partly due to genetic differences.

The androgen model of suicide completion

Suicide is a devastating public health issue that imposes severe psychological, social, and economic burdens not only for the individuals but also for their relatives, friends, clinicians, and the general public. Among the different suicidal behaviors, suicide completion is the worst and the most relevant outcome. The knowledge of biological etiopathological mechanisms involved in suicide completion is limited. Hitherto, no objective markers, either alone or in combination, can reliably predict who will complete a suicide. However, such parameters are strongly needed to establish and optimize prediction and prevention. We introduce here a novel ideation-to-completion framework in suicide research and discuss the problems of studies aiming at identifying and validating clinically useful markers. The male gender is a specific risk factor for suicide, which suggests that androgen effects are implicated in the transition from suicidal ideation to suicide completion. We present multiple lines of direct and indirect evidence showing that both an increased prenatal androgen load (with subsequent permanent neuroadaptations) and increased adult androgen activity are involved in suicide completion. We also review data arguing that modifiable maternal behavioral traits during pregnancy contribute to the offspring's prenatal androgen load and increase the risk for suicide completion later in life. We conclude that in utero androgen exposure and adult androgen levels facilitate suicide completion in an synergistic manner. The androgen model of suicide completion provides the basis for the development of novel predictive and preventive strategies in the future.

Electrocardiographic and Electrooculographic Responses to External Emotions and Their Transitions in Bipolar I and II Disorders

Bipolar disorder has two main types, bipolar I (BD I) and II (BD II), which present different affective states and personality characteristics, they might present different modes of emotional regulation. We hypothesized that the electrocardiogram and electrooculogram to external emotions are different in BD I and BD II. We asked 69 BD I and 54 BD II patients, and 139 healthy volunteers to undergo these tests in response to disgust, erotica, fear, happiness, neutral, and sadness, and their transitions. Their affective states were also measured. The heart rate in BD I was significantly higher under background fear after target neutral. The eyeball movement was quicker in BD I under target happiness after background disgust; in BD I under target sadness after background disgust; and in BD I under background disgust after target neutral. Some electrocardiographic and electrooculographic changes were correlated with affective states in patients. BD I and BD II had different physiological responses to external emotions and their transitions, indicating different pathophysiologies and suggesting different emotional-therapies for BD I and BD II.

Mixed states in bipolar disorder - changes in DSM-5 and current treatment recommendations

OBJECTIVE

Mixed states in affective disorders represent a particular challenge in clinical routine, characterized by a complicated course of treatment and a worse treatment response.

METHODS

Clinical features of mixed states and the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) criteria are presented and critical discussed. We then performed a systematic review using the terms 'bipolar', 'mixed' and 'randomized' to evaluate current treatment options.

RESULTS

For pharmacological treatment of mixed states in total, there is still insufficient data from RCTs. However, there is some evidence for efficacy in mixed states from RCTs for atypical antipsychotics, especially olanzapine, aripiprazole and asenapine as well as mood stabilizers as valproate and carbamazepine.

CONCLUSIONS

Mixed states are of a high clinical relevance and the DSM-5 criteria substantially reduced the diagnostic threshold. Besides advantages of a better characterization of patients with former DSM-IV-defined mixed episodes, disadvantages arise for example differential diagnoses with a substantial overlap in symptoms such as borderline personality disorders. Atypical antipsychotics, valproate and carbamazepine demonstrated efficacy in a limited sample of RCTs.

LIMITATIONS

The number of RCTs in the treatment of mixed states is highly limited. Furthermore, nearly all studies were funded by pharmaceutical companies which may lead to an underestimation of classical mood stabilizers such as lithium.

A distinctive abnormality of diffusion tensor imaging parameters in the fornix of patients with bipolar II disorder

Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) studies have revealed a changed integrity in the white matter of bipolar disorder. However, only a few investigations have examined bipolar II disorder (BP-II). A cross-sectional study was conducted to compare thirty-eight patients with BP-II (mean age = 38.26 years, F/M = 19/19) with thirty-eight age- and gender-matched healthy controls (mean age = 34.45 years, F/M = 18/20). Tract Based Spatial Statistics (TBSS) analysis of the fractional anisotropy (FA) was done with age, gender and education years as covariates, then a complementary atlas-based region-of-interest (ROI) analysis including the axial diffusivity (AD) and radial diffusivity (RD) was conducted to obtain further information. The patients with BP-II showed a significant decrease in FA in the corpus callosum (commissure fibers), fornix (association fibers) and right anterior corona radiata (projection fibers) compared to the controls. Moreover, a significant increase in the RD was observed in all of the fibers of the BP-II patients, while the AD significantly increased only in the fornix of the patients. Thus, in addition to the abnormal integrity of the commissure and projection fibers, the present study suggested an involvement of the limbic association fibers in the pathophysiology of BP-II induced by a distinctive neuropathology.

Validating a two-dimensional bipolar spectrum model integrating DSM-5's mixed features specifier for Major Depressive Disorder

INTRODUCTION

The literature on DSM-5's 'Major Depressive Disorder with lifetime mixed features' (MDD-MF) is limited. This study investigated MDD-MF's potential inclusion into a bipolar spectrum.

METHODS

We recruited 287 patients with Bipolar I disorder (BD-I), BD-II, MDD-MF or 'MDD without lifetime mixed features' (MDD-noMF); most (N=280) were stabilized for at least one year on medication. Sixteen validators (clinical features, psychiatric family history, temperament, stabilizing treatment) were compared across groups and subjected to trend analyses. Two discriminant function analyses (DFA; primary and secondary), excluding or including, respectively, treatment-related predictors, explored latent dimensions maximizing between-group discrimination; mahalanobis distances between group 'centroids' were calculated.

RESULTS

Eleven validators differed significantly across groups; nine varied monotonically along a bipolar diathesis gradient with significant linear trends; two peaked at MDD-MF and displayed significant quadratic trends. In the primary DFA, apart from a classic bipolarity dimension, correlating with hospitalizations, early age at onset, lifetime psychosis and lower anxious temperament scores, on which groups ranked along a bipolar propensity gradient, a second dimension was also significant, peaking at BD-II and MDD-MF (challenging the classic bipolar ranking), which correlated with lifetime psychiatric comorbidities, suicidality, lower lifetime psychosis rates, female gender, higher cyclothymic and lower depressive temperament scores; MDD-MF was equipoised amidst BD-II and MDD-noMF. After including treatment-related predictors (secondary DFA), discrimination improved overall but BD-II and MDD-MF were closest than any other pair, suggesting similar treatment patterns for these two groups at this naturalistic setting.

CONCLUSIONS

To our knowledge, this is the first time a two-dimensional bipolar spectrum based on classic external validators is proposed, fitting the data better than a unidimensional model. Additional predictors are warranted to improve BD-II/MDD-MF discrimination.

Treatment recommendations for DSM-5-defined mixed features

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) mixed features specifier provides a less restrictive definition of mixed mood states, compared to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-IV-TR), including mood episodes that manifest with subthreshold symptoms of the opposite mood state. A limited number of studies have assessed the efficacy of treatments specifically for DSM-5-defined mixed features in mood disorders. As such, there is currently an inadequate amount of data to appropriately inform evidence-based treatment guidelines of DSM-5 defined mixed features. However, given the high prevalence and morbidity of mixed features, treatment recommendations based on the currently available evidence along with expert opinion may be of benefit. This article serves to provide these interim treatment recommendations while humbly acknowledging the limited amount of evidence currently available. Second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) appear to have the greatest promise in the treatment of bipolar disorder (BD) with mixed features. Conventional mood stabilizing agents (ie, lithium and divalproex) may also be of benefit; however, they have been inadequately studied. In the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) with mixed features, the comparable efficacy of antidepressants versus other treatments, such as SGAs, remains unknown. As such, antidepressants remain first-line treatment of MDD with or without mixed features; however, there are significant safety concerns associated with antidepressant monotherapy when mixed features are present, which merits increased monitoring. Lurasidone is the only SGA monotherapy that has been shown to be efficacious specifically in the treatment of MDD with mixed features. Further research is needed to accurately determine the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of treatments specifically for mood episodes with mixed features to adequately inform future treatment guidelines.

Measures of the DSM-5 mixed-features specifier of major depressive disorder

During the past two decades, a number of studies have found that depressed patients frequently have manic symptoms intermixed with depressive symptoms. While the frequency of mixed syndromes are more common in bipolar than in unipolar depressives, mixed states are also common in patients with major depressive disorder. The admixture of symptoms may be evident when depressed patients present for treatment, or they may emerge during ongoing treatment. In some patients, treatment with antidepressant medication might precipitate the emergence of mixed states. It would therefore be useful to systematically inquire into the presence of manic/hypomanic symptoms in depressed patients. We can anticipate that increased attention will likely be given to mixed depression because of changes in the DSM-5. In the present article, I review instruments that have been utilized to assess the presence and severity of manic symptoms and therefore could be potentially used to identify the DSM-5 mixed-features specifier in depressed patients and to evaluate the course and outcome of treatment. In choosing which measure to use, clinicians and researchers should consider whether the measure assesses both depression and mania/hypomania, assesses all or only some of the DSM-5 criteria for the mixed-features specifier, or assesses manic/hypomanic symptoms that are not part of the DSM-5 definition. Feasibility, more so than reliability and validity, will likely determine whether these measures are incorporated into routine clinical practice.

Guidelines for the recognition and management of mixed depression

A significant minority of people presenting with a major depressive episode (MDE) experience co-occurring subsyndromal hypo/manic symptoms. As this presentation may have important prognostic and treatment implications, the DSM-5 codified a new nosological entity, the "mixed features specifier," referring to individuals meeting threshold criteria for an MDE and subthreshold symptoms of (hypo)mania or to individuals with syndromal mania and subthreshold depressive symptoms. The mixed features specifier adds to a growing list of monikers that have been put forward to describe phenotypes characterized by the admixture of depressive and hypomanic symptoms (e.g., mixed depression, depression with mixed features, or depressive mixed states [DMX]). Current treatment guidelines, regulatory approvals, as well the current evidentiary base provide insufficient decision support to practitioners who provide care to individuals presenting with an MDE with mixed features. In addition, all existing psychotropic agents evaluated in mixed patients have largely been confined to patient populations meeting the DSM-IV definition of "mixed states" wherein the co-occurrence of threshold-level mania and threshold-level MDE was required. Toward the aim of assisting clinicians providing care to adults with MDE and mixed features, we have assembled a panel of experts on mood disorders to develop these guidelines on the recognition and treatment of mixed depression, based on the few studies that have focused specifically on DMX as well as decades of cumulated clinical experience.

C-reactive protein: A differential biomarker for major depressive disorder and bipolar II disorder

Objectives We aimed to examine whether the C-reactive protein (CRP) level could be used to differentiate between major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar II disorder (BD II). Methods Ninety-six healthy controls, 88 BD II and 72 MDD drug-naïve patients in their major depressive episodes were enrolled. The fasting plasma level of high-sensitivity CRP was assessed at baseline and after treatment. Results The BD II patients presented significantly higher 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) scores and CRP levels at baseline when adjustment for age, gender, and body mass index (P <  0.001 and P <  0.001, respectively). After treatment the CRP levels remained significantly different (P <  0.001), although the HDRS score was not significantly different between the BD II and MDD patients. A receiver-operating characteristic analysis showed that a baseline CRP level of 621.6 ng/mL could discriminate between BD II and MDD, with an area under the curve of 0.816 and a sensitivity and specificity of 0.699 and 0.882, respectively. Furthermore, the baseline CRP level greater than 621.6 ng/ml had 28.2 higher odds of a diagnosis of BD II (P <  0.001, 95% confidence interval: 10.96-72.35). Conclusions The level of CRP plays a role of biomarker to differentiate between MDD and BD II depression in both their depressed and euthymic state.

Can home-monitoring of sleep predict depressive episodes in bipolar patients?

The aim of this study is the evaluation of the autonomic regulations during depressive stages in bipolar patients in order to test new quantitative and objective measures to detect such events. A sensorized T-shirt was used to record ECG signal and body movements during the night, from which HRV data and sleep macrostructure were estimated and analyzed. 9 out of 20 features extracted resulted to be significant (p<;0.05) in discriminating among depressive and non-depressive states. Such features are representation of HRV dynamics in both linear and non-linear domain and parameters linked to sleep modulations.

Current irritability robustly related to current and prior anxiety in bipolar disorder

BACKGROUND

Although current irritability and current/prior anxiety have been associated in unipolar depression, these relationships are less well understood in bipolar disorder (BD). We investigated relationships between current irritability and current/prior anxiety as well as other current emotions and BD illness characteristics.

METHODS

Outpatients referred to the Stanford Bipolar Disorders Clinic during 2000-2011 were assessed with the Systematic Treatment Enhancement Program for BD (STEP-BD) Affective Disorders Evaluation. Prevalence and clinical correlates of current irritability and current/prior anxiety and other illness characteristics were examined.

RESULTS

Among 497 BD outpatients (239 Type I, 258 Type II; 58.1% female; mean ± SD age 35.6 ± 13.1 years), 301 (60.6%) had baseline current irritability. Patients with versus without current irritability had significantly higher rates of current anxiety (77.1% versus 42.9%, p < 0.0001) and history of anxiety disorder (73.1% versus 52.6%, p < 0.0001). Current irritability was more robustly related to current anxiety than to current anhedonia, sadness, or euphoria (all p < 0.001), and current irritability-current anxiety associations persisted across current predominant mood states. Current irritability was more robustly related to past anxiety than to all other assessed illness characteristics, including 1° family history of mood disorder, history of alcohol/substance use disorder, bipolar subtype, and current syndromal/subsyndromal depression (all p < 0.05).

LIMITATIONS

Limited generalizability beyond our predominately white, female, educated, insured American BD specialty clinic sample.

CONCLUSIONS

In BD, current irritability was robustly related to current/prior anxiety. Further studies are warranted to assess longitudinal clinical implications of relationships between irritability and anxiety in BD.

Modulatory effects of α7 nAChRs on the immune system and its relevance for CNS disorders

The clinical development of selective alpha-7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7 nAChR) agonists has hitherto been focused on disorders characterized by cognitive deficits (e.g., Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia). However, α7 nAChRs are also widely expressed by cells of the immune system and by cells with a secondary role in pathogen defense. Activation of α7 nAChRs leads to an anti-inflammatory effect. Since sterile inflammation is a frequently observed phenomenon in both psychiatric disorders (e.g., schizophrenia, melancholic and bipolar depression) and neurological disorders (e.g., Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis), α7 nAChR agonists might show beneficial effects in these central nervous system disorders. In the current review, we summarize information on receptor expression, the intracellular signaling pathways they modulate and reasons for receptor dysfunction. Information from tobacco smoking, vagus nerve stimulation, and cholinesterase inhibition is used to evaluate the therapeutic potential of selective α7 nAChR agonists in these inflammation-related disorders.

The Bipolar II Depression Questionnaire: A Self-Report Tool for Detecting Bipolar II Depression

Bipolar II (BP-II) depression is often misdiagnosed as unipolar (UP) depression, resulting in suboptimal treatment. Tools for differentiating between these two types of depression are lacking. This study aimed to develop a simple, self-report screening instrument to help distinguish BP-II depression from UP depressive disorder. A prototype BP-II depression questionnaire (BPIIDQ-P) was constructed following a literature review, panel discussions and a field trial. Consecutively assessed patients with a diagnosis of depressive disorder or BP with depressive episodes completed the BPIIDQ-P at a psychiatric outpatient clinic in Hong Kong between October and December 2013. Data were analyzed using discriminant analysis and logistic regression. Of the 298 subjects recruited, 65 (21.8%) were males and 233 (78.2%) females. There were 112 (37.6%) subjects with BP depression [BP-I = 42 (14.1%), BP-II = 70 (23.5%)] and 182 (62.4%) with UP depression. Based on family history, age at onset, postpartum depression, episodic course, attacks of anxiety, hypersomnia, social phobia and agoraphobia, the 8-item BPIIDQ-8 was constructed. The BPIIDQ-8 differentiated subjects with BP-II from those with UP depression with a sensitivity/specificity of 0.75/0.63 for the whole sample and 0.77/0.72 for a female subgroup with a history of childbirth. The BPIIDQ-8 can differentiate BP-II from UP depression at the secondary care level with satisfactory to good reliability and validity. It has good potential as a screening tool for BP-II depression in primary care settings. Recall bias, the relatively small sample size, and the high proportion of females in the BP-II sample limit the generalization of the results.

Atypical Antipsychotics in the Treatment of Acute Bipolar Depression with Mixed Features: A Systematic Review and Exploratory Meta-Analysis of Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trials

Evidence supporting the use of second generation antipsychotics (SGAs) in the treatment of acute depression with mixed features (MFs) associated with bipolar disorder (BD) is scarce and equivocal. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and preliminary meta-analysis investigating SGAs in the treatment of acute BD depression with MFs. Two authors independently searched major electronic databases from 1990 until September 2015 for randomized (placebo-) controlled trials (RCTs) or open-label clinical trials investigating the efficacy of SGAs in the treatment of acute bipolar depression with MFs. A random-effect meta-analysis calculating the standardized mean difference (SMD) between SGA and placebo for the mean baseline to endpoint change in depression as well as manic symptoms score was computed based on 95% confidence intervals (CI). Six RCTs and one open-label placebo-controlled studies (including post-hoc reports) representing 1023 patients were included. Participants received either ziprasidone, olanzapine, lurasidone, quetiapine or asenapine for an average of 6.5 weeks across the included studies. Meta-analysis with Duval and Tweedie adjustment for publication bias demonstrated that SGA resulted in significant improvements of (hypo-)manic symptoms of bipolar mixed depression as assessed by the means of the total scores of the Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) (SMD −0.74, 95% CI −1.20 to −0.28, n SGA = 907, control = 652). Meta-analysis demonstrated that participants in receipt of SGA (n = 979) experienced a large improvement in the Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) scores (SMD −1.08, 95% CI −1.35 to −0.81, p < 0.001) vs. placebo (n = 678). Publication and measurement biases and relative paucity of studies. Overall, SGAs appear to offer favorable improvements in MADRS and YMRS scores vs. placebo. Nevertheless, given the preliminary nature of the present report, additional original studies are required to allow more reliable and clinically definitive conclusions.

Prevalence and correlates of bipolar disorders in patients with eating disorders

BACKGROUND

To investigate the prevalence and correlates of bipolar disorders in patients with eating disorders (EDs), and to examine differences in effects between major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder on these patients.

METHODS

Sequential attendees were invited to participate in a two-phase survey for EDs at the general psychiatric outpatient clinics. Patients diagnosed with EDs (n=288) and controls of comparable age, sex, and educational level (n=81) were invited to receive structured interviews for psychiatric co-morbidities, suicide risks, and functional level. All participants also completed several self-administered questionnaires assessing general and eating-related pathology and impulsivity. Characteristics were compared between the control, ED-only, ED with major depressive disorder, and ED with bipolar disorder groups.

RESULTS

Patients with all ED subtypes had significantly higher rates of major depressive disorder (range, 41.3-66.7%) and bipolar disorder (range, 16.7-49.3%) than controls did. Compared to patients with only EDs, patients with comorbid bipolar disorder and those with comorbid major depressive disorder had significantly increased suicidality and functional impairments. Moreover, the group with comorbid bipolar disorder had increased risks of weight dysregulation, more impulsive behaviors, and higher rates of psychiatric comorbidities.

LIMITATIONS

Participants were selected in a tertiary center of a non-Western country and the sample size of individuals with bipolar disorder in some ED subtypes was small.

CONCLUSION

Bipolar disorders were common in patients with EDs. Careful differentiation between bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder in patients with EDs may help predict associated psychopathology and provide accurate treatment.

Relationship between Chinese adjective descriptors of personality and emotional symptoms in young Chinese patients with bipolar disorders

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether personality traits are related to emotional symptoms (mania, hypomania, and depression) in Chinese patients with bipolar disorders.

METHODS

Patients with bipolar I and II disorders, and healthy volunteers, were assessed using the Chinese Adjective Descriptors of Personality (CADP) questionnaire, Mood Disorder Questionnaire (MDQ), Hypomanic Checklist (HCL-32), and Plutchik-van Praag Depression Inventory (PVP).

RESULTS

Seventy-three patients with bipolar I disorder, 35 with bipolar II disorder and 216 healthy controls were included. Bipolar I and II groups scored significantly higher on MDQ, HCL-32 and PVP scales than controls; the bipolar II group scored lower on the MDQ, but higher on the HCL-32 and PVP than bipolar I. In the bipolar I group, the CADP Intelligent trait (β, 0.25) predicted MDQ; Intelligent (β, -0.24), Agreeable (β, 0.22) and Emotional (β, 0.34) traits predicted PVP. In the bipolar II group, Intelligent (β, 0.22), Agreeable (β, -0.24) and Unsocial (β, 0.31) traits predicted MDQ; Intelligent (β, -0.20), Agreeable (β, -0.31) and Emotional (β, -0.26) traits predicted HCL-32.

CONCLUSIONS

Four out of five Chinese personality traits were associated with emotional symptoms in patients with bipolar I or II disorder, but displayed different associations depending on disorder type.

[Mixed depression and DSM-5: A critical review]

BACKGROUND

Mixed depression is a depressive syndrome characterized by the presence, along with the typical depressive symptoms of depression, of those of over activation and excitation. If sometimes this activation is expressed by classical hypomanic symptoms, it is often observed by means of more subtle expression: inner tension, crowded thoughts, dramatic expression suffering, and unproductive agitation. It is important to identify mixed depression because such patients are particularly at risk of suicidal behaviors, substance abuse and therapeutic resistance. Even if therapeutic strategies continue to be discussed, treatments should rely on mood stabilizers and antipsychotics instead of antidepressants as in pure depression. Even though the concept of mixed depression has been described for more than twenty years, first by Koukopoulos and then by other authors, it had been little studied, especially because it did not appear in international psychiatric classifications. The DSM-IV supported a very narrow conception of the mixed states because the criteria required simultaneous full manic and full depressive syndromes, corresponding only to some dysphoric manias. The recently published DSM-5 proposes modifications in mood and bipolar disorder classifications, and especially introduces the possibility to specify depressive and manic episodes with "mixed features". To diagnose depression with mixed features, a full depressive syndrome has to be present together most of time with three hypomanic symptoms, except symptoms that are considered as overlapping (that can be observed either in mania or in depression), i.e. agitation, irritability and distractibility.

METHODS

Critical analysis of DSM criteria and review of literature.

RESULTS

We first analyzed the clinical relevance of the definition of depression with mixed features which could correspond to mixed depression. The problem is that the hypomanic symptoms allowed by the manual lead to symptom associations that are rather illogical (as euphoria with depression) or improbable (as increased or excessive involvement in activities that have a high potential for painful consequences). Also, some more specific symptoms that can be observed in mixed depression are not mentioned (such as hypersensitivity to light or noise, absence of motor retardation, dramatic expressivity of suffering). The DSM-5, as did DSM-IV, refers to an understanding of mixed depression as a simple addition of depressive and manic symptoms. The classification does not take into account that the symptoms could be rather different from hypomania, as the expression of an overactive thought in a depressed mind. Secondly, we reviewed cohort studies using the DSM-5 criteria (or similar criteria with the exclusion of overlapping symptoms), and as a consequence of the poorly defined symptoms, we found that the diagnosis of mixed depression according to DSM-5 is almost impossible, either in unipolar or in bipolar depression.

CONCLUSIONS

We think, with others, that the definition of the mixed depression by the DSM-5 is not clinically relevant and misses important information about the concept. Clinicians can be attentive to the identification of mixed character in depression, even if DSM-5 criteria are not fully met. Unfortunately, the DSM-5 definition could undermine research efforts for a better understanding of epidemiology, phenomenology and therapeutics of mixed depression. We propose and discuss alternative solutions for defining mixed depression, such as the absence of exclusion of "overlapping" symptoms, a more insighted phenomenology, or a dimensional approach.

Distinguishing bipolar from unipolar depression: the importance of clinical symptoms and illness features

BACKGROUND

Distinguishing bipolar disorder (BP) from major depressive disorder (MDD) has important relevance for prognosis and treatment. Prior studies have identified clinical features that differ between these two diseases but have been limited by heterogeneity and lack of replication. We sought to identify depression-related features that distinguish BP from MDD in large samples with replication.

METHOD

Using a large, opportunistically ascertained collection of subjects with BP and MDD we selected 34 depression-related clinical features to test across the diagnostic categories in an initial discovery dataset consisting of 1228 subjects (386 BPI, 158 BPII and 684 MDD). Features significantly associated with BP were tested in an independent sample of 1000 BPI cases and 1000 MDD cases for classifying ability in receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis.

RESULTS

Seven clinical features showed significant association with BPI compared with MDD: delusions, psychomotor retardation, incapacitation, greater number of mixed symptoms, greater number of episodes, shorter episode length, and a history of experiencing a high after depression treatment. ROC analyses of a model including these seven factors showed significant evidence for discrimination between BPI and MDD in an independent dataset (area under the curve = 0.83). Only two features (number of mixed symptoms, and feeling high after an antidepressant) showed an association with BPII versus MDD.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that clinical features distinguishing depression in BPI versus MDD have important classification potential for clinical practice, and should also be incorporated as 'baseline' features in the evaluation of novel diagnostic biomarkers.

The bipolar II disorder personality traits, a true syndrome?

BACKGROUND

The author was struck by the similarities and commonality of complaints, aside from mood swings, made by Bipolar II patients and started registrating these complaints. This registrational work eventually led to the development of The Bipolar II Syndome Checklist. The aim of this work was to understand how widely the Bipolar II disorder affects the personality, and what disturbing personality traits are the most common? Deliberately, no attempt was made to diagnose psychiatric comorbidities, in the hope that one would get a clearer view of what symptoms, if any, could be considered a natural part of the Bipolar II Disorder. As far as the author knows this is a novel approach.

METHOD

105 Bipolar II patients completed the Bipolar II Syndrome Checklist. The answers to the 44 questions on the list are presented in tables.

RESULTS

Symptoms like anxiety, low self esteem, paranoia, extreme hurtfulness, migraine, Post Partum Depression, obsessive traits, alcoholism in the family are amongst the findings which will be presented in greater detail.

LIMITATIONS

No control group. Bipolar I patients excluded. The Bipolar II Syndrome Checklist has not been systematically validated.

CONCLUSIONS

The results show that Bipolar II Disorder causes multiple symptoms so commonly that it may be justified to describe it as a syndrome, The Bipolar II Syndrome. Also these disturbances commonly lie in families of Bipolar II patients and are in all likelihood, greatly underdiagnosed. The clinical relevance of this study lies in increasing our knowledge and understanding of the nature of the Bipolar II Disorder, which in all probability will increase the diagnostic and treatment accuracy, since clinicians are more likely to scan for other symptoms needing treatment.

Prevalence and predictors of bipolar disorders in patients with a major depressive episode: the Japanese epidemiological trial with latest measure of bipolar disorder (JET-LMBP)

BACKGROUND

For patients with a major depressive episode, early differential diagnosis of bipolar disorder and subsequent appropriate treatment are critical. This study, conducted in clinical settings in Japan, examined patients with a major depressive episode to investigate the prevalence and predictors of bipolar disorders.

METHODS

A total of 448 patients with a major depressive episode were interviewed using the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview to determine the presence of mood episodes and psychiatric comorbidities. The diagnosis of bipolar disorder was based on the collected information according to the DSM-IV-TR.

RESULTS

Of the 448 patients with a major depressive episode, 114 patients (25.4%) were diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Multivariate logistic regression identified five predictors that were significantly correlated with bipolar disorder: antidepressant-related switch to mania/hypomania, mixed depression, two or more previous mood episodes within the past year, early age at the onset of a major depressive episode (<25 years), and a history of suicide attempts. The area under the curve of receiver operating characteristic analysis based on the multivariate logistic regression of the five predictors was 0.849.

LIMITATIONS

The diagnosis of bipolar disorder in patients was already conclusively confirmed by long illness observations but was not confirmed by a prospective study.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with a major depressive episode, the differential diagnosis of bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder, which exhibit similar depressive symptoms, is essential. Several predictors identified in the present study may be useful in supporting a differential diagnosis of these disorders in routine clinical practice.