1
|
Dols A, Sekhon H, Rej S, Klaus F, Bodenstein K, Sajatovic M. Bipolar Disorder Among Older Adults: Newer Evidence to Guide Clinical Practice. FOCUS (AMERICAN PSYCHIATRIC PUBLISHING) 2023; 21:370-379. [PMID: 38695001 PMCID: PMC11058954 DOI: 10.1176/appi.focus.20230010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
The term older-age bipolar disorder (OABD) refers to patients with bipolar disorder who are ages 50 and older. Research findings suggest important differences, including the attenuation of manic symptoms with age and the occurrence of multiple somatic comorbid conditions. Although the pharmacological treatment of OABD is fairly similar, adverse effects, somatic comorbidity, and drug-drug interactions are more common. Lithium is effective in treating OABD and may have the potential to be neuroprotective. Anticonvulsants and second-generation antipsychotics have a growing evidence supporting their use in treating OABD. Behavioral intervention can be a helpful adjunct to pharmacological treatment. Clinicians and health care systems need to be prepared to provide care and services to individuals with bipolar disorder throughout the life span. Although older adults have typically been excluded from bipolar disorder RCTs, emerging efforts organized by global advocates and harnessing teams of clinicians and scientists have the potential to advance care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annemiek Dols
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands (Dols); Department of Psychiatry, Jewish General Hospital/Lady Davis Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada (Sekhon, Rej, Bodenstein); McLean Hospital (Harvard Medical School Affiliate), Belmont, Massachusetts (Sekhon); Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California (Klaus); Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio (Sajatovic)
| | - Harmehr Sekhon
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands (Dols); Department of Psychiatry, Jewish General Hospital/Lady Davis Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada (Sekhon, Rej, Bodenstein); McLean Hospital (Harvard Medical School Affiliate), Belmont, Massachusetts (Sekhon); Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California (Klaus); Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio (Sajatovic)
| | - Soham Rej
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands (Dols); Department of Psychiatry, Jewish General Hospital/Lady Davis Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada (Sekhon, Rej, Bodenstein); McLean Hospital (Harvard Medical School Affiliate), Belmont, Massachusetts (Sekhon); Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California (Klaus); Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio (Sajatovic)
| | - Federica Klaus
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands (Dols); Department of Psychiatry, Jewish General Hospital/Lady Davis Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada (Sekhon, Rej, Bodenstein); McLean Hospital (Harvard Medical School Affiliate), Belmont, Massachusetts (Sekhon); Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California (Klaus); Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio (Sajatovic)
| | - Katie Bodenstein
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands (Dols); Department of Psychiatry, Jewish General Hospital/Lady Davis Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada (Sekhon, Rej, Bodenstein); McLean Hospital (Harvard Medical School Affiliate), Belmont, Massachusetts (Sekhon); Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California (Klaus); Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio (Sajatovic)
| | - Martha Sajatovic
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands (Dols); Department of Psychiatry, Jewish General Hospital/Lady Davis Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada (Sekhon, Rej, Bodenstein); McLean Hospital (Harvard Medical School Affiliate), Belmont, Massachusetts (Sekhon); Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California (Klaus); Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio (Sajatovic)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Lavin P, Buck G, Almeida OP, Su CL, Eyler LT, Dols A, Blumberg HP, Forester BP, Forlenza OV, Gildengers A, Mulsant BH, Tsai SY, Vieta E, Schouws S, Briggs FBS, Sutherland A, Sarna K, Yala J, Orhan M, Korten N, Sajatovic M, Rej S. Clinical correlates of late-onset versus early-onset bipolar disorder in a global sample of older adults. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2022; 37. [PMID: 36317317 DOI: 10.1002/gps.5833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 10/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Late-onset bipolar disorder (LOBD) represents a significant subgroup of bipolar disorder (BD). However, knowledge for this group is mostly extrapolated from small studies in subjects with early/mixed age of illness onset. In this global sample of older adults with BD (OABD: ≥50 years old) we aim to characterize the sociodemographic and clinical presentation of LOBD (≥40 years at BD onset) compared to early-onset BD (EOBD: <40 years at BD onset). METHODS The Global Aging and Geriatric Experiments in Bipolar Disorder consortium provided international data on 437 older age bipolar disorder participants. We compared LOBD versus EOBD on depression, mania, functionality, and physical comorbidities. Exploratory analyses were performed on participants with BD onset ≥50 years old. RESULTS LOBD (n = 105) did not differ from EOBD (n = 332) on depression, mania, global functioning, nor employment status (p > 0.05). Late-onset bipolar disorder was associated with higher endocrine comorbidities (odds ratio = 1.48, [95%CI = 1.0,12.1], p = 0.03). This difference did not remain significant when subjects with BD onset ≥50 years old were analyzed. LIMITATIONS This study is limited by the retrospective nature of the variable age of onset and the differences in evaluation methods across studies (partially overcame by harmonization processes). CONCLUSION The present analysis is in favor of the hypothesis that LOBD might represent a similar clinical phenotype as classic EOBD with respect to core BD symptomatology, functionality, and comorbid physical conditions. Large-scale global collaboration to improve our understanding of BD across the lifespan is needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paola Lavin
- GeriPARTy Research Group, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Lady Davis Research Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Gabriella Buck
- Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Osvaldo P Almeida
- Medical School, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Chien-Lin Su
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Lisa T Eyler
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, USA
- Desert-Pacific Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center, San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Annemieke Dols
- GGZ InGeest, Amsterdam UMC, VU Medical Center, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Brent P Forester
- McLean Hospital, Belmont, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Orestes V Forlenza
- Laboratory of Neuroscience, Instituto de Psiquiatría, Hospital da Universidad de São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ariel Gildengers
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Benoit H Mulsant
- Department of Psychiatry, Center for Addiction & Mental Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Shang-Ying Tsai
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Eduard Vieta
- Hospital Clinic, University of Barcelona, IDIBAPS, CIBERSAM, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sigfried Schouws
- GGZ InGeest, Amsterdam UMC, VU Medical Center, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Farren B S Briggs
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, Case Western Reserve University, School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Ashley Sutherland
- Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Kaylee Sarna
- Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Joy Yala
- Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Melis Orhan
- GGZ InGeest, Amsterdam UMC, VU Medical Center, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nicole Korten
- GGZ InGeest, Amsterdam UMC, VU Medical Center, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Martha Sajatovic
- Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, University Hospitals Case Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Soham Rej
- GeriPARTy Research Group, Jewish General Hospital, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Lady Davis Research Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
[First appearance of mania in major neurocognitive disorder]. Rev Esp Geriatr Gerontol 2021; 57:49-50. [PMID: 34583861 DOI: 10.1016/j.regg.2021.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
|
4
|
Arnold I, Dehning J, Grunze A, Hausmann A. Old Age Bipolar Disorder-Epidemiology, Aetiology and Treatment. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 57:medicina57060587. [PMID: 34201098 PMCID: PMC8226928 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57060587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Data regarding older age bipolar disorder (OABD) are sparse. Two major groups are classified as patients with first occurrence of mania in old age, the so called “late onset” patients (LOBD), and the elder patients with a long-standing clinical history, the so called “early onset” patients (EOBD). The aim of the present literature review is to provide more information on specific issues concerning OABD, such as epidemiology, aetiology and treatments outcomes. We conducted a Medline literature search from 1970–2021 using the MeSH terms “bipolar disorder” and “aged” or “geriatric” or “elderly”. The additional literature was retrieved by examining cross references and by a hand search in textbooks. With sparse data on the treatment of OABD, current guidelines concluded that first-line treatment of OABD should be similar to that for working-age bipolar disorder, with specific attention to side effects, somatic comorbidities and specific risks of OABD. With constant monitoring and awareness of the possible toxic drug interactions, lithium is a safe drug for OABD patients, both in mania and maintenance. Lamotrigine and lurasidone could be considered in bipolar depression. Mood stabilizers, rather than second generation antipsychotics, are the treatment of choice for maintenance. If medication fails, electroconvulsive therapy is recommended for mania, mixed states and depression, and can also be offered for continuation and maintenance treatment. Preliminary results also support a role of psychotherapy and psychosocial interventions in old age BD. The recommended treatments for OABD include lithium and antiepileptics such as valproic acid and lamotrigine, and lurasidone for bipolar depression, although the evidence is still weak. Combined psychosocial and pharmacological treatments also appear to be a treatment of choice for OABD. More research is needed on the optimal pharmacological and psychosocial approaches to OABD, as well as their combination and ranking in an evidence-based therapy algorithm.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Arnold
- Helios Klinik Berlin-Buch, 13125 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Julia Dehning
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Medical University Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +43-512-504-83802
| | - Anna Grunze
- Psychiatrisches Zentrum Nordbaden, 69168 Wiesloch, Germany;
| | - Armand Hausmann
- Private Practice, Wilhelm-Greil-Straße 5, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria;
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Jung YS, Kim YE, Kim A, Yoon SJ. Trends in the prevalence and treatment of bipolar affective disorder in South Korea. Asian J Psychiatr 2020; 53:102194. [PMID: 32563107 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2020.102194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to assess trends in the prevalence of bipolar disorder (BP). We also analyzed patterns of medical use by Korean patients with BP, defined as those diagnosed with the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) F31 code who used at least one inpatient or outpatient medical service in a year. We analyzed yearly BP prevalence and inpatient hospitalization periods per year from 2008 to 2017 using National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) claims data for 52.43 million people. Overall, the BP prevalence was 0.2 %, as of 2017, with consistently higher rates in women. The BP prevalence was highest among those aged ≥60 years (0.27 %) and was lowest among those aged 0-29 years (0.12 %), as of 2017. The average annual rate of increase among those aged 0-29 years and ≥60 years was 8.48 % and 7.39 %, respectively, which exceeded the overall mean of 6.58 %. The average annual rate of increase in BP prevalence for those aged 30-59 years was 4.67 %. The proportion of inpatients who were hospitalized for longer than 180 days decreased, while the proportion of those hospitalized for 0-14 days increased. The estimated BP prevalence was higher when using the most recent NHIS data rather than in the surveys. These prevalence rates can be used to support the development of future mental health policies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yoon-Sun Jung
- Department of Public Health, Korea University, Seoul, South Korea.
| | - Young-Eun Kim
- Big Data Department, National Health Insurance Service, Wonju, South Korea.
| | - Arim Kim
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
| | - Seok-Jun Yoon
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Takeda S, Fukushima H, Okamoto C, Kitawaki Y, Nakayama S. Effects of a lifestyle development program designed to reduce the risk factors for cognitive decline on the mental health of elderly individuals. Psychogeriatrics 2020; 20:480-486. [PMID: 32101630 DOI: 10.1111/psyg.12538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Revised: 02/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The incidence of Alzheimer's disease (AD) along with depression is high in the elderly. In the present study, a program that allows the elderly individuals to voluntarily manage and develop lifestyles that may reduce the risk factors for cognitive decline was applied to the participants to evaluate its effect on the mental health of these individuals. METHODS The participants were randomly assigned to an intervention group and a control group. The program was conducted during 7 months in the intervention group, and it had seven times of group activities, performed once a month for about 1 h, and individual activities to reduce the risk factors for cognitive decline, performed every day. To evaluate the effects of the program on the mental health of the participants, the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) and Philadelphia Geriatric Center Morale Scale (PGC) were used. These two scales were applied twice to the intervention and control groups. RESULTS The GDS score revealed no change in the score in the intervention group before and after the 7-month program implementation; however, in the control group, the score was significantly higher after program implementation than that before. The PGC score revealed no change in the intervention group before and after 7-month program implementation; however, in the control group, the score was significantly lower after program implementation than that before. Additionally, it revealed no change in the GDS score in the depression-prone control group before and after 7-month program implementation; however, in the depression-prone intervention group, the GDS score was significantly lower after program implementation than that before. CONCLUSIONS The intervention program that allows the elderly individuals to voluntarily manage and develop lifestyles that may reduce the risk factors for cognitive decline is expected to maintain mental health in elderly individuals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shinya Takeda
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Tottori University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Tottori, Japan
| | | | | | | | - Shigeki Nakayama
- National Institute of Technology, Yonago College, Tottori, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Liao PC, Chung KH, Chen PH, Kuo CJ, Huang YJ, Tsai SY. Differences in outcomes between older community-dwelling patients with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia with illness onset at young age. Psychogeriatrics 2020; 20:363-369. [PMID: 31975543 DOI: 10.1111/psyg.12514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2018] [Revised: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 01/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
AIM Older community-dwelling patients with severe mental illness (SMI), particularly those with illness onset at young age, constitute a group of survivors with unique long-term care needs. Using an Asian sample in Taiwan, we attempted to find out the differences in outcomes related to physical health, cognition, and social functioning between older community-dwelling adults with bipolar disorder and schizophrenia with early age onset. METHODS Community-dwelling patients aged >50 years with bipolar I disorder or schizophrenia whose illness developed before the age of 40 years were recruited. Clinical data were obtained by reviewing all available medical records and by interviewing the patients and their reliable family members. Medical morbidities, Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Cumulative Illness Rating Scale for Geriatrics (CIRS-G), and Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) scores were compared between the two groups. RESULTS In total, 113 bipolar patients and 104 schizophrenic ones (mean ages = 59.8 and 59.2 years, respectively) became the final subjects. The rates of cognitive impairment (MMSE score <24) were comparable in bipolar disorder (26.5%) and schizophrenia (24.0%) and the mean MMSE scores did not significantly differ from each other. The concurrence (54.9%) of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the bipolar group was also similar to 51.0% in the schizophrenic one. In a multiple logistic regression analysis, the bipolar group exhibited significantly higher CIRS-G total scores (95% confidence interval (CI) for odds ratio (OR) = 1.01-1.27), body mass index (95% CI for OR = 1.02-1.21), and GAF scores (95% CI for OR = 1.04-1.14). CONCLUSION Given better social functioning and the same cognitive function in older community-dwelling patients with bipolar disorder, they may remain at higher risk for obesity and medical morbidity than schizophrenic patients. Treatments targeting cognitive impairment and CVDs across their life span are both necessary to promote the health of community-dwellers with SMI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Po-Chiao Liao
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Hsuan Chung
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Psychiatry and Psychiatric Research Center, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Pao-Huan Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Psychiatry and Psychiatric Research Center, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chian-Jue Kuo
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Taipei City Psychiatric Center, Taipei City Hospital, Songde Branch, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Jui Huang
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shang-Ying Tsai
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.,Department of Psychiatry and Psychiatric Research Center, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Canham SL, Mahmood A, Stalman MN, King D, O'Rourke N. Personal theories of substance use among middle-aged and older adults with bipolar disorder. Aging Ment Health 2018; 22:813-818. [PMID: 28271715 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2017.1299689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Most persons with bipolar disorder (BD) misuse alcohol and/or illicit drugs at some point, yet research specific to older adults with BD is nascent. The current study sought an in-depth understanding of the experiences and meanings of substance use in a sample of adults who self-reported substance misuse. METHODS Semi-structured interviews were conducted and thematically analyzed to understand the personal theories of substance use by 12 adults (9 women and 3 men; M = 49 years old) who self-reported diagnoses of BD and regular alcohol or illicit drug use. RESULTS Findings provide an in-depth picture of the theories middle-aged and older adults with BD have developed to explain their substance use. Participants' theories suggest multiple reasons for substance use, including self-medication; increased confidence with substance use; rejection of prescribed medications; easy access to alcohol; early social exposure/use as facilitator; and living in a culture of substance use. CONCLUSION Findings suggest multiple theories for the comorbid link between BD and substance use, primarily that persons with BD use drugs and/or alcohol to relieve stress or manage symptoms. It is clinically relevant to incorporate personal reasons for actively and regularly using substances as part of personalized substance treatment and BD symptom management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah L Canham
- a Gerontology Research Centre , Simon Fraser University , Vancouver , Canada
| | - Atiya Mahmood
- b Department of Gerontology , Simon Fraser University , Vancouver , Canada
| | | | - David King
- c IRMACS Centre , Simon Fraser University , Burnaby , Canada
| | - Norm O'Rourke
- d Department of Public Health and Center for Multidisciplinary Research in Aging , Ben-Gurion University of the Negev , Be'er Sheva , Israel
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Culpepper L. The role of primary care clinicians in diagnosing and treating bipolar disorder. PRIMARY CARE COMPANION TO THE JOURNAL OF CLINICAL PSYCHIATRY 2011; 12:4-9. [PMID: 20628500 DOI: 10.4088/pcc.9064su1c.01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Because many patients with bipolar disorder seek treatment in primary care practices, physicians in these settings need to be able to diagnose bipolar disorder and common psychiatric and medical comorbidities and to initiate and manage treatment. Unfortunately, bipolar disorder is often underrecognized. The most common symptoms in patients with bipolar disorder are depressive, but these patients may also have anxiety, mood swings, sleep problems, irritability, difficulty concentrating, relationship issues, alcohol- or drug-related problems, and infections. Social and family history and screening tools can help clarify diagnosis. The goal of treatment should be recovery, but periodic relapse and medication nonadherence should be expected. Primary care physicians should decide what level of intervention their practices can support. To manage these patients effectively, practices may need to train office staff, set up monitoring and follow-up systems, establish links with referral and community support services, develop therapeutic alliances with patients, and provide psychoeducation for patients and significant others. Receiving comprehensive psychiatric and medical care and support can be life-changing for patients with bipolar disorder and their families.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Larry Culpepper
- Department of Family Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Vasudev A, Thomas A. 'Bipolar disorder' in the elderly: what's in a name? Maturitas 2010; 66:231-5. [PMID: 20307944 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2010.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2010] [Revised: 02/22/2010] [Accepted: 02/22/2010] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Bipolar disorder is a chronic disorder of mood which leads to episodes of either elevated mood or depression in a sizable number of adults in the community (1%). Though the prevalence rates in the elderly are lower in the community (up to 0.1%), there is significantly higher morbidity in protected environments like care homes and hospital settings where prevalence rates may be as high as 10%. Bipolar disorder in the elderly is probably heterogenous and its etiopathogenesis is complex. Bipolar disorder may be divided into two distinct subtypes, the late onset bipolar (LOB) and the early onset bipolar (EOB) groups. LOB patients tend to have a milder illness in terms of manic severity but they have higher medical and neurological burden. They also have lower familial burden of bipolar illness as compared to EOB patients. There is an increased risk of dementia and stroke in patients with late life bipolar disorder (and there may be a protective effect of lithium in preventing dementia). White matter changes, as seen by increased white matter hyperintensities on neuroimaging, are also increased, providing further evidence of cerebrovascular disease. Treatment of late life bipolar is currently based on guidelines drawn up for younger bipolar disorder patients. Good quality intervention studies are needed to estimate the possible protective effect of cognitive enhancers and/or vascular prevention strategies. This review suggests that late life bipolar disorder, particularly late onset bipolar disorder, is probably a distinct diagnostic entity compared to the younger bipolar patients as it has a different presentation, etiology and hence perhaps needs different treatment strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akshya Vasudev
- Institute for Ageing and Health, Newcastle University, Campus for Ageing and Vitality, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Oostervink F, Boomsma MM, Nolen WA. Bipolar disorder in the elderly; different effects of age and of age of onset. J Affect Disord 2009; 116:176-83. [PMID: 19087895 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2008.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2008] [Revised: 11/14/2008] [Accepted: 11/14/2008] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Information about differences between younger and elderly patients with bipolar disorder and between elderly patients with early and late age of onset of illness is limited. METHOD The European Mania in Bipolar Longitudinal Evaluation of Medication (EMBLEM) study was a 2-year prospective, observational study in 3459 bipolar patients on the treatment and outcome of patients with an acute manic or mixed episode. Within this study, elderly patients (>60 years of age; n=475) were compared with younger patients (<50 years of age; n=2286), and within the elderly group, Late Onset Bipolar (LOB) patients (onset > or =50 years; n=141) were compared with Early Onset Bipolar (EOB) patients (<50 years; n=323). RESULTS In the year prior to enrollment, elderly patients, especially those with EOB, more frequently reported a rapid cycling course of illness, but fewer suicide attempts. At baseline, elderly patients more often used one psychotropic medication and demonstrated less severe manic and psychotic symptoms, but no difference in depressive symptomatology. However, prior to enrollment and during the acute phase of treatment, elderly patients more frequently received antidepressants. Atypical antipsychotics were given less frequently. Regarding 12-week outcomes, there was no difference between elderly and younger patients, although LOB elderly recovered faster, and were discharged sooner than EOB elderly patients. LIMITATIONS Information about somatic conditions was not systematically collected nor was information about concurrent use of non-psychiatric medication which might have given some indication of somatic comorbidity. CONCLUSION Elderly bipolar manic patients differ from younger bipolar manic patients regarding treatment but not treatment outcome. LOB elderly patients demonstrated a more favourable outcome. The use of medication and the occurrence of rapid cycling in EOB elderly patients warrant further study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frits Oostervink
- GGZ Haagstreek Department of Psychiatry, Leidschendam, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Tsai SY, Lee HC, Chen CC, Huang YL. Cognitive impairment in later life in patients with early-onset bipolar disorder. Bipolar Disord 2007; 9:868-75. [PMID: 18076536 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-5618.2007.00498.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Cognitive impairment may interfere with psychosocial functioning in bipolar disorder (BD). There is limited information regarding the cognitive function of elderly bipolar patients with onset at a young age. The present study aimed to investigate the frequency and the determinants of cognitive impairment in elderly early-onset bipolar patients. METHODS Using the Clock-drawing Test (CDT), the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), and the Cognitive Abilities Screening Instrument (CASI), we examined euthymic patients with bipolar I disorder in Taiwan, aged 60 years and older. Clinical data were obtained by reviewing medical records and personal interviews with patients and their family members. The onset of BD prior to the age of 40 years is defined as 'early-onset'. RESULTS Of the 52 early-onset patients, 42.3% were determined to have cognitive impairment by exhibiting either abnormal CDT or education-adjusted MMSE scores. In a multiple regression model, years of education and the age at the last manic/hypomanic (but not depressive) episode accounted for the greatest variance in both MMSE and CASI scores. While educational level and the age at the last manic/hypomanic episode were not considered in the regression model, onset with depressive syndrome and current age explained 21.5% of the variance in MMSE scores. Age at the first depressive episode, the first manic episode before the age of 40 years, and comorbid diabetes accounted for 16.7% of the variance in CASI scores. CONCLUSIONS There appeared to be a sizable proportion of elderly early-onset bipolar patients having cognitive impairment. It is suggested that clinical manifestation of first-onset affective episode and impact of medical comorbidity affect the cognition of early-onset BD in later life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shang-Ying Tsai
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Sajatovic M, Ramsay E, Nanry K, Thompson T. Lamotrigine therapy in elderly patients with epilepsy, bipolar disorder or dementia. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2007; 22:945-50. [PMID: 17326238 DOI: 10.1002/gps.1784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In spite of circumstances that precipitate high use of anticonvulsants in geriatric populations, there is a paucity of data on the use of antiepileptic drugs in elderly patients with psychiatric and neurological disorders. METHODS Reports of lamotrigine therapy in elderly patients with epilepsy, bipolar disorder (BD), or dementia were identified by conducting an electronic search of major publication databases. Abstracts and presentations from professional meetings were searched as were the bibliographies of relevant articles. RESULTS Fourteen reports were identified, and included well-controlled prospective trials, retrospective analyses, and case reports of lamotrigine treatment. Controlled trials in elderly patients with epilepsy demonstrate efficacy and tolerability comparable to gabapentin. Improvement in bipolar depressive symptoms, improvement in core manic symptoms, and delay in mood relapse was reported in geriatric patients with BD. Preliminary case studies in patients with dementia note improvement in cognition and symptoms of agitation and depression. CONCLUSION Review of the available literature suggests lamotrigine is effective and well tolerated in elderly patients with epilepsy and relatively well-tolerated and may be effective in delaying mood relapse, particularly in the depressive pole, in patients with BD. While very limited literature suggests that lamotrigine may be effective and relatively well-tolerated in patients with dementia, further studies are needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martha Sajatovic
- Department of Psychiatry, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Brooks JO, Hoblyn JC, Kraemer HC, Yesavage JA. Factors associated with psychiatric hospitalization of individuals diagnosed with dementia and comorbid bipolar disorder. J Geriatr Psychiatry Neurol 2006; 19:72-7. [PMID: 16690991 DOI: 10.1177/0891988706286215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The objective was to determine risk factors of psychiatric hospitalization among a Veterans Administration database of patients with dementia and comorbid bipolar disorder (D+BD). Patients with D+BD had a greater prevalence of psychiatric hospitalization (28% vs 4%). The strongest predictor of psychiatric hospitalization was the presence of an alcohol use disorder (51% risk); patients without alcohol use disorders but under the age of 70 had the next highest risk (33% risk). However, patients with an alcohol use disorder had shorter psychiatric hospitalizations than those without. Compared with patients without BD, D+BD patients were more likely to have alcohol use disorders (15% vs 3%) and any other substance use problem (10% vs 1%). In patients diagnosed with dementia and bipolar disorder, the strongest risk factor for psychiatric hospitalization was an alcohol abuse disorder. These findings suggest that disorders with increased frequency in BD affect the course of dementia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John O Brooks
- Palo Alto Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Palo Alto, California 94304, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Strudsholm U, Johannessen L, Foldager L, Munk-Jørgensen P. Increased risk for pulmonary embolism in patients with bipolar disorder. Bipolar Disord 2005; 7:77-81. [PMID: 15654935 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-5618.2004.00176.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to investigate the increased risk for pulmonary embolism (PE) in patients with manic-depressive psychosis/bipolar disorder (BD). Affective patients show increased mortality compared with the background population. METHODS A register study was carried out in which somatic and psychiatric information in 25,834 BD patients and 117,815 controls was extracted from The Danish Psychiatric Central Research Register, The National Register of Patients, The Danish Central Person Register and The Danish Register of Causes of Death, with similar information about patients with schizophrenia and anxiety for comparison. RESULTS Patients with BD had a significantly increased occurrence of PE [increased incidence rate ratio (IRR)=1.61; 95% confidence interval (CI) (1.38, 1.88)]. An association was also found in schizophrenic patients [IRR=1.78; 95% CI (1.27, 2.51)] and in anxiety patients [IRR=1.49; 95% CI (1.10, 2.02)]. CONCLUSIONS Increased occurrence of PE in patients with BD is one of the explanations of increased mortality in the affective patient group. A similar finding in females with schizophrenia and females with anxiety suggests 'mental disorder' as the risk factor for PE. The causes for the increased occurrence of PE in BD patients (and other diagnostic groups) need further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ulla Strudsholm
- Center for Basic Psychiatric Research, Aarhus University Hospital, Risskov, Denmark
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Abstract
Clinical research in geriatric psychopharmacology has been a relatively neglected focus compared with the wealth of information on younger populations, and there is a dearth of published, controlled trials. Similarly, these are limited data in the area of geriatric bipolar disorder. Although there is an absence of rigorous, evidence-based information, preliminary data on older adults with bipolar disorder suggest some promising treatment options and important differences in older versus younger patients with bipolar illness. Lithium, while widely utilised in younger populations, is often poorly tolerated in the elderly. Clinical evidence regarding use of antiepileptic compounds in late-life bipolar disorder is generally compiled from bipolar disorder studies in mixed populations, studies in older adults with seizure disorders, and studies on dementia and psychotic conditions other than bipolar disorder. Valproate semisodium and carbamazepine are widely prescribed compounds in older adults with bipolar disorder. However, the popularity of these compounds has occurred in context of an absence of evidence-based data. The atypical antipsychotics have expanded the treatment armamentarium for bipolar disorder in mixed populations and may offer particular promise in management of bipolar illness in older populations as well. Olanzapine, risperidone, quetiapine, ziprasidone and aripiprazole are atypical antipsychotics that have been approved by the US FDA for the treatment of bipolar disorder; however, there are no published, controlled trials with atypical antipsychotics specific to mania in geriatric patients. Preliminary reports on the use of clozapine, risperidone, olanzapine and quetiapine suggest a role for the use of these agents in late-life bipolar disorder. Information with ziprasidone and aripiprazole specific to geriatric bipolar disorder is still lacking.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martha Sajatovic
- Case University School of Medicine and University Hospitals of Cleveland, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Depp CA, Jin H, Mohamed S, Kaskow J, Moore DJ, Jeste DV. Bipolar disorder in middle-aged and elderly adults: is age of onset important? J Nerv Ment Dis 2004; 192:796-9. [PMID: 15505527 DOI: 10.1097/01.nmd.0000145055.45944.d6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The literature is mixed about whether age of onset is a useful variable in explaining the heterogeneity of late-life bipolar disorder. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship of age of onset with clinical, family history, and neuropsychological functioning in middle-aged and older patients with bipolar disorder. A total of 87 outpatients with bipolar disorder with a mean age of 59 (range, 42-89) were included in this study. Age of onset was analyzed as a continuous variable and was split at age 40 years into early-onset and late-onset groups. Participants were administered measures of psychopathology, cognitive functioning, and medication usage. Few meaningful differences emerged between early-onset and late-onset groups, except that overall psychopathology was significantly lower in the late-onset group. Age of onset did not relate to differences in family history, depressive symptoms, cognitive functioning, or medication use whether used as a categorical or continuous variable. Thus, the validity of late-onset bipolar disorder as a distinct syndrome was not corroborated by this study. Interpretation of these findings is limited by the sample size, cross-sectional design, and a lack of brain imaging data. Further research on the clinical features and neurobiological aspects of late-life bipolar disorder is needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Colin A Depp
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The goal of this article is to provide a comprehensive critical review of studies reporting the prevalence, features, age of onset, course, comorbidity, and neuropsychology of, as well as service utilization, in bipolar disorder in older age. METHODS We searched the Medline, Pubmed, and PsycINFO databases using combinations of the keywords 'Bipolar', 'Manic/a', 'Manic Depression', 'Elderly', and 'Older'. We included English-language reports presenting quantitative data on the prevalence and/or any descriptive information about adults with bipolar disorder over age 50. Findings from similar studies were pooled when possible. A total of 61 studies met our broad criteria. RESULTS Common methodological problems in the published studies included small sample sizes, retrospective chart review, lack of standardized measures, overemphasis on inpatients, and dearth of longitudinal data. Strong evidence indicates that bipolar disorder becomes less common with age, accounts for 8-10% of late life psychiatric admissions, is associated with neurologic factors in late-onset groups, and is a heterogeneous life-long illness. Weak or inconsistent evidence was found for a higher prevalence of mixed episodes in older adults, a lower treatment response, and the association with lower family history in late-onset groups. Minimal information is available on bipolar depression in late life. CONCLUSIONS Bipolar disorder in old age is a growing public health problem. Greater research on bipolar disorder in older people will assist in enhancing services to this group as well as inform research on bipolar disorder across the life span.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Colin A Depp
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California at San Diego, San Diego, CA 92161, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Current awareness in geriatric psychiatry. Bibliography. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2003; 18:91-98. [PMID: 12569951 DOI: 10.1002/gps.783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
|