Epidemiology, diagnosis and management of mixed mania

Pharmacologic Treatment of Mixed States

Despite the relatively high prevalence of mixed symptoms and features among patients with mood disorders, the current literature supporting the specific efficacy of second-generation antipsychotics and mood stabilizers for the treatment of mixed symptoms is limited. Several studies have demonstrated that acute affective episodes with mixed symptoms or features tend to respond unsatisfactory to treatments that are usually more effective for the management of other affective phases. There is clearly a need for clinical trials in order to determine the more adequate pharmacologic option for the treatment of individuals suffering from affective episodes with mixed features.

Cariprazine for the treatment of bipolar mania with mixed features: A post hoc pooled analysis of 3 trials

BACKGROUND

When bipolar I disorder (BP-I) mania is accompanied by subsyndromal depressive symptoms, a more complicated illness presentation results. To qualify for the mixed features specifier during mania, the DSM-5 requires ≥3 "non-overlapping" depressive symptoms (DS); notwithstanding, concerns of this definition's ecological validity and implications for timely diagnosis remain.

METHODS

Herein, patients were pooled from three similarly-designed pivotal trials of cariprazine compared to placebo for BP-I mania (NCT00488618/NCT01058096/NCT01058668) in post hoc analyses of mixed features using three criteria: ≥3 DS (DSM-5), ≥2 DS, and Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) total score ≥10. Efficacy of cariprazine compared to placebo was assessed (Week 3) by Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) and MADRS scores and rates of mania response and remission.

RESULTS

In pooled patients (N = 1037), cariprazine significantly improved mean YMRS scores compared to placebo for each criterion; LSMDs were ≥3 DS = -3.79 (P = .0248), ≥2 DS = -2.91 (P = .0207), and ≥10 MADRS = -5.49 (P < .0001). More cariprazine- than placebo-treated patients met YMRS response and remission criteria, reaching significance for response in ≥2 DS (34% versus 47%; number-needed-to-treat [NNT] = 8, P = .0483) and ≥10 MADRS (31% versus 57%, NNT = 4, P < .0001) and for remission in ≥2 DS (27% versus 39%, NNT = 9, P = .0462), ≥10 MADRS (23% versus 44%, NNT = 5, P < .0001). Depressive symptoms were improved compared to placebo, reaching statistical significance in the MADRS ≥10 subgroup (LSMD = -1.59, P = .0082).

LIMITATIONS

Post hoc analysis, MADRS  < 18 entry criterion may have prevented assessment of MADRS changes.

CONCLUSIONS

Cariprazine significantly reduced manic and depressive symptoms in patients with mixed features with differential efficacy across the subgroups analyzed herein.

Mixed States: Modelling and Management

Our current conceptualisation of mixed states, defined as co-occurring manic and depressive symptoms, is unlikely to advance our knowledge or inform clinical practice. Episodes of mixed states can no longer be coded in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), and the 'mixed features specifier' fails to capture the most common mixed state presentations. This reflects a lack of understanding of both the importance of mixed states and their underlying pathophysiology. Indeed, research into the nature of mixed states is scarce and uninformative, and most clinical practice guidelines fail to provide advice regarding their management. In this paper, we proffer a reconceptualisation of mixed states that provides a framework for informing clinical practice and research. It is based on the ACE model, which deconstructs mood disorders into three domains of symptoms: activity, cognition, and emotion. Symptoms within each domain vary independently over time and in different directions (towards either excitation or inhibition). By deconstructing mood disorders into component domains, mixed states can be explained as the product of different domains varying 'out of sync'. In most cases, the aetiology of mixed states is unknown. Alongside such idiopathic mixed states, we describe three potential causes of mixed states that are important to consider when formulating management: transitions, ultradian cycling, and treatment-emergent affective switches. In addition to providing guidance on the identification of various kinds of mixed states, we discuss practical strategies for their management, including the monitoring of ACE domains and functioning, to inform the use of psychoeducation and lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, pharmacology, and electroconvulsive therapy.

Can lithium salts prevent depressive episodes in the real world?

To critically examine the effectiveness of lithium in preventing depressive symptoms (mixed and depressive episodes) in real life settings, taking into account adherence to drug treatment and its implications for the clinical costs of the disease. Overall, 72 patients with bipolar disorder initially treated with lithium carbonate were included and followed-up for 10 years. Patients were assessed every 8 weeks for morbidity and alcohol/drug consumption. Patients with good adherence to lithium had fewer episodes with depressive features than poor adherers (B = 2.405, p = 0.046) and also fewer manic and hypomanic episodes (B = 2.572; p < 0.001), after controlling for confounders. Time to relapse into a depressive or mixed episode and into a manic or hypomanic episode was shorter in patients with poor adherence. The costs of the 1.95 ± 2.38 (mean ± standard deviation) admissions of adherent patients through the 10 years of follow-up were €10,349, while the costs of the 6.25 ± 4.92 admissions of non-adherent patients were €44,547. In clinical practice settings, long-term lithium salts seem to have a preventive effect on depressive symptoms.

The World Federation of Societies of Biological Psychiatry (WFSBP) Guidelines for the Biological Treatment of Bipolar Disorders: Acute and long-term treatment of mixed states in bipolar disorder

OBJECTIVES

Although clinically highly relevant, the recognition and treatment of bipolar mixed states has played only an underpart in recent guidelines. This WFSBP guideline has been developed to supply a systematic overview of all scientific evidence pertaining to the acute and long-term treatment of bipolar mixed states in adults.

METHODS

Material used for these guidelines is based on a systematic literature search using various data bases. Their scientific rigour was categorised into six levels of evidence (A-F), and different grades of recommendation to ensure practicability were assigned. We examined data pertaining to the acute treatment of manic and depressive symptoms in bipolar mixed patients, as well as data pertaining to the prevention of mixed recurrences after an index episode of any type, or recurrence of any type after a mixed index episode.

RESULTS

Manic symptoms in bipolar mixed states appeared responsive to treatment with several atypical antipsychotics, the best evidence resting with olanzapine. For depressive symptoms, addition of ziprasidone to treatment as usual may be beneficial; however, the evidence base is much more limited than for the treatment of manic symptoms. Besides olanzapine and quetiapine, valproate and lithium should also be considered for recurrence prevention.

LIMITATIONS

The concept of mixed states changed over time, and recently became much more comprehensive with the release of DSM-5. As a consequence, studies in bipolar mixed patients targeted slightly different bipolar subpopulations. In addition, trial designs in acute and maintenance treatment also advanced in recent years in response to regulatory demands.

CONCLUSIONS

Current treatment recommendations are still based on limited evidence, and there is a clear demand for confirmative studies adopting the DSM-5 specifier with mixed features concept.

Post hoc analyses of asenapine treatment in pediatric patients with bipolar I disorder: efficacy related to mixed or manic episode, stage of illness, and body weight

BACKGROUND

Patient characteristics and disease progression may affect response to pharmacologic intervention in bipolar I disorder. Asenapine is approved for acute treatment of manic/mixed episodes of bipolar I disorder in patients 10-17 years old. Post hoc analyses assessed asenapine efficacy in pediatric patients by current manic or mixed episode, number of lifetime episodes, and baseline body mass index (BMI).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Data were obtained from a 3-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group trial of asenapine 2.5, 5.0, or 10.0 mg twice daily (BID) in male or female patients (10-17 years) with bipolar I disorder (NCT01244815). Patients were stratified by current episode type (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fourth edition - defined mixed/manic), number of lifetime episodes (<3, 3-5, >5), and baseline BMI tertile. Changes from baseline to day 21 in Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) total score and Clinical Global Impressions Scale for use in Bipolar Illness (CGI-BP) were assessed in asenapine subgroups vs placebo.

RESULTS

In patients with mixed episodes, differences in YMRS and CGI-BP scores were statistically significant for each asenapine dose vs placebo (P<0.001) at day 21; in patients with manic episodes, significant differences vs placebo were seen in all groups (P<0.05) except 2.5 mg BID on the YMRS. In patients with <3 previous mixed/manic episodes, significant differences in YMRS and CGI-BP scores were observed for all asenapine doses vs placebo (P<0.05). In patients with 3-5 or >5 previous episodes, asenapine 10 mg BID was significantly different than placebo (P<0.05) on both scales; differences vs placebo varied for lower doses. Baseline body weight or BMI did not appear to influence the efficacy of asenapine.

CONCLUSION

Asenapine was effective in the treatment of pediatric patients with bipolar I disorder. Efficacy did not appear to be influenced by the type of current episode, stage of disease progression, or baseline body weight/BMI.

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.

Mixed features in bipolar disorder

Mixed affective states, defined as the coexistence of depressive and manic symptoms, are complex presentations of manic-depressive illness that represent a challenge for clinicians at the levels of diagnosis, classification, and pharmacological treatment. The evidence shows that patients with bipolar disorder who have manic/hypomanic or depressive episodes with mixed features tend to have a more severe form of bipolar disorder along with a worse course of illness and higher rates of comorbid conditions than those with non-mixed presentations. In the updated Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.; DSM-5), the definition of "mixed episode" has been removed, and subthreshold nonoverlapping symptoms of the opposite pole are captured using a "with mixed features" specifier applied to manic, hypomanic, and major depressive episodes. However, the list of symptoms proposed in the DSM-5 specifier has been widely criticized, because it includes typical manic symptoms (such as elevated mood and grandiosity) that are rare among patients with mixed depression, while excluding symptoms (such as irritability, psychomotor agitation, and distractibility) that are frequently reported in these patients. With the new classification, mixed depressive episodes are three times more common in bipolar II compared with unipolar depression, which partly contributes to the increased risk of suicide observed in bipolar depression compared to unipolar depression. Therefore, a specific diagnostic category would imply an increased diagnostic sensitivity, would help to foster early identification of symptoms and ensure specific treatment, as well as play a role in suicide prevention in this population.

Factors related to suicidal behavior in patients with bipolar disorder: the effect of mixed features on suicidality

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the present study was to investigate various risk factors of suicidal behaviors, including the mixed features specifier, in patients with bipolar disorder.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed medical charts from 2005 to 2014. A total of 334 patients diagnosed with bipolar disorder using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision were enrolled. Subjects were categorized into two groups according to their history of suicidal behavior and the demographic and clinical characteristics of the groups were compared, including the mixed features specifier. We reevaluated the index episode using Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) criteria and classified subjects into an index episode with mixed features group and an index episode without mixed features group. Logistic regression was performed to evaluate significant risk factors associated with suicidal behavior.

RESULTS

Suicidal behavior had an independent relationship to mixed features at the index episode using DSM-5 criteria [odds ratio (OR)=3.39; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.57-7.34] and number of previous depressive episodes (OR=1.62; 95% CI: 1.34-1.95) in bipolar patients. The mixed feature specifier was the strongest risk factor for suicidal behavior in the present study.

CONCLUSIONS

This study may help clinicians understand potential risk factors and manage bipolar disorders with suicidal behaviors. Clinicians should carefully monitor patients with bipolar disorder who exhibit numerous depressive episodes or mixed features for suicidal behavior.

Diagnosis, Epidemiology and Management of Mixed States in Bipolar Disorder

Approximately 40% of patients with bipolar disorder experience mixed episodes, defined as a manic state with depressive features, or manic symptoms in a patient with bipolar depression. Compared with bipolar patients without mixed features, patients with bipolar mixed states generally have more severe symptomatology, more lifetime episodes of illness, worse clinical outcomes and higher rates of comorbidities, and thus present a significant clinical challenge. Most clinical trials have investigated second-generation neuroleptic monotherapy, monotherapy with anticonvulsants or lithium, combination therapy, and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Neuroleptic drugs are often used alone or in combination with anticonvulsants or lithium for preventive treatment, and ECT is an effective treatment for mixed manic episodes in situations where medication fails or cannot be used. Common antidepressants have been shown to worsen mania symptoms during mixed episodes without necessarily improving depressive symptoms; thus, they are not recommended during mixed episodes. A greater understanding of pathophysiological processes in bipolar disorder is now required to provide a more accurate diagnosis and new personalised treatment approaches. Targeted, specific treatments developed through a greater understanding of bipolar disorder pathophysiology, capable of affecting the underlying disease processes, could well prove to be more effective, faster acting, and better tolerated than existing therapies, therefore providing better outcomes for individuals affected by bipolar disorder. Until such time as targeted agents are available, second-generation neuroleptics are emerging as the treatment of choice in the management of mixed states in bipolar disorder.

The State of the Art of the DSM-5 "with Mixed Features" Specifier

The new DSM-5 “with mixed features” specifier (MFS) has renewed the interest of the scientific community in mixed states, leading not only to new clinical studies but also to new criticisms of the current nosology. Consequently, in our paper we have reviewed the latest literature, trying to understand the reactions of psychiatrists to the new nosology and its epidemiological, prognostic, and clinical consequences. It seems that the most widespread major criticism is the exclusion from the DSM-5 MFS of overlapping symptoms (such as psychomotor agitation, irritability, and distractibility), with a consequent reduction in diagnostic power. On the other hand, undoubtedly the new DSM-5 classification has helped to identify more patients suffering from a mixed state by broadening the narrow DSM-IV-TR criteria. As for the clinical presentation, the epidemiological data, and the therapeutic outcomes, the latest literature does not point out a univocal point of view and further research is needed to fully assess the implications of the new DSM-5 MFS. It is our view that a diagnostic category should be preferred to a specifier and mixed states should be better considered as a spectrum of states, according to what was stated many years ago by Kraepelin.

Evaluating depressive symptoms in mania: a naturalistic study of patients with bipolar disorder

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate patients with bipolar I disorder (BD-I) who have mania with depressive symptoms and who meet the new "with mixed features" specifier of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition (DSM-5).

METHOD

This prospective, multinational, naturalistic study surveyed psychiatrists and their patients with BD-I from October 2013 to March 2014. Eligible patients had BD-I, had a (current) manic episode, and had experienced onset of a manic episode within the previous 3 months. Psychiatrists provided patient information on depressive symptoms (DSM-5 criteria); symptoms of anxiety, irritability, and agitation; suicide attempts; and physician satisfaction with treatment response. Data were stratified according to whether patients met the criteria for the BD-I "with mixed features" specifier of DSM-5 (≥3 depressive symptoms) or not, and characteristics were compared between the two subgroups. Patients also self-reported on depressive symptoms using the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview module questionnaire.

RESULTS

Overall, 34% of 1,035 patients met the criteria for BD-I "with mixed features," exhibiting ≥3 depressive symptoms during their current manic episode. This correlated with the matched patient self-reports of depressive symptoms. During their current manic episode, BD-I patients "with mixed features" had more severe symptoms of anxiety, irritability, and agitation (average composite severity score of 4.1 vs 3.4), a higher incidence of suicide attempts (38% vs 9%), and more physician dissatisfaction with treatment response (22% vs 14%), compared to patients with 0-2 depressive symptoms (all P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

This study found that patients with BD-I "with mixed features" (ie, ≥3 depressive symptoms during a manic episode), suffered, on average, from a greater burden of disease than patients with pure mania. Improved identification of these patients may help to optimize treatment outcomes.

Korean Medication Algorithm Project for Bipolar Disorder: third revision

OBJECTIVE

To constitute the third revision of the guidelines for the treatment of bipolar disorder issued by the Korean Medication Algorithm Project for Bipolar Disorder (KMAP-BP 2014).

METHODS

A 56-item questionnaire was used to obtain the consensus of experts regarding pharmacological treatment strategies for the various phases of bipolar disorder and for special populations. The review committee included 110 Korean psychiatrists and 38 experts for child and adolescent psychiatry. Of the committee members, 64 general psychiatrists and 23 child and adolescent psychiatrists responded to the survey.

RESULTS

The treatment of choice (TOC) for euphoric, mixed, and psychotic mania was the combination of a mood stabilizer (MS) and an atypical antipsychotic (AAP); the TOC for acute mild depression was monotherapy with MS or AAP; and the TOC for moderate or severe depression was MS plus AAP/antidepressant. The first-line maintenance treatment following mania or depression was MS monotherapy or MS plus AAP; the first-line treatment after mania was AAP monotherapy; and the first-line treatment after depression was lamotrigine (LTG) monotherapy, LTG plus MS/AAP, or MS plus AAP plus LTG. The first-line treatment strategy for mania in children and adolescents was MS plus AAP or AAP monotherapy. For geriatric bipolar patients, the TOC for mania was AAP/MS monotherapy, and the TOC for depression was AAP plus MS or AAP monotherapy.

CONCLUSION

The expert consensus in the KMAP-BP 2014 differed from that in previous publications; most notably, the preference for AAP was increased in the treatment of acute mania, depression, and maintenance treatment. There was increased expert preference for the use of AAP and LTG. The major limitation of the present study is that it was based on the consensus of Korean experts rather than on experimental evidence.

The significance of mixed states in depression and mania

The DSM-5 definition of mixed features "specifier" of manic, hypomanic and major depressive episodes captures sub-syndromal non-overlapping symptoms of the opposite pole, experienced in bipolar (I, II, and not otherwise specified) and major depressive disorders. This combinatory model seems to be more appropriate for less severe forms of mixed state, in which mood symptoms are prominent and clearly identifiable. Sub-syndromal depressive symptoms have been frequently reported to co-occur during mania. Similarly, manic or hypomanic symptoms during depression resulted common, dimensionally distributed, and recurrent. The presence of mixed features has been associated with a worse clinical course and high rates of comorbidities including anxiety, personality, alcohol and substance use disorders and head trauma or other neurological problems. Finally, mixed states represent a major therapeutic challenge, especially when you consider that these forms tend to have a less favorable response to drug treatments and require a more complex approach than non-mixed forms.

The potential role of atypical antipsychotics in the treatment of panic disorder

OBJECTIVE

Many studies have investigated the efficacy and tolerability of alternative pharmacotherapy for panic disorder. This study aims to provide a comprehensive review of the existing literature regarding the efficacy and tolerability of atypical antipsychotics for panic disorder.

METHODS

We searched for relevant published articles using Medline, the Cochrane database, and EMBASE on 19 June 2013. Prospective studies that examined the efficacy and tolerability of atypical antipsychotics in the treatment of primary panic disorder or comorbid panic disorder (or symptoms) in other psychiatric disorders were included in this review.

RESULTS

Seven prospective studies were included in this review. Among these, four were open-label studies for refractory panic disorder. Two of the seven included studies were randomized controlled trials among patients with panic symptoms comorbid with bipolar disorder. The remaining study was a randomized controlled trial for panic disorder or panic attack comorbid with major depression. Except one negative risperidone study, the reviewed studies showed the favorable efficacy results of atypical antipsychotics.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the majority of the evidence regarding the efficacy of atypical antipsychotics in the treatment of panic disorder comes from small, open-label studies, this review suggests the potential role of atypical antipsychotics in treating panic disorder.

The diagnosis and treatment of bipolar disorder: decision-making in primary care

Bipolar disorder is a chronic episodic illness, characterized by recurrent episodes of manic or depressive symptoms. Patients with bipolar disorder frequently present first to primary care, but the diversity of the potential symptoms and a low index of suspicion among physicians can lead to misdiagnosis in many patients. Frequently, co-occurring psychiatric and medical conditions further complicate the differential diagnosis. A thorough diagnostic evaluation at clinical interview, combined with supportive case-finding tools, is essential to reach an accurate diagnosis. When treating bipolar patients, the primary care physician has an integral role in coordinating the multidisciplinary network. Pharmacologic treatment underpins both short- and long-term management of bipolar disorder. Maintenance treatment to prevent relapse is frequently founded on the same pharmacologic approaches that were effective in treating the acute symptoms. Regardless of the treatment approach that is selected, monitoring over the long term is essential to ensure continued symptom relief, functioning, safety, adherence, and general medical health. This article describes key decision-making steps in the management of bipolar disorder from the primary care perspective: from initial clinical suspicion to confirmation of the diagnosis to decision-making in acute and longer-term management and the importance of patient monitoring.

Phenomenological subtypes of severe bipolar mixed states: a factor analytic study

OBJECTIVE

The correct identification of bipolar mixed states (MS) has important implications for clinical practice. The aim of the study was to define the multidimensional psychopathological structure of severe MS. To our knowledge, no factor analytical studies including only patients with MS, have been conducted before.

METHODS

In the first week of hospitalization, we evaluated by HAM-D-17, YMRS, BPRS and CGI, 202 Bipolar I inpatients with MS according to DSM-IV criteria referred for an ECT trial. A Principal-component analysis followed by Varimax rotation was performed on the 24-item BPRS. The relationships among different symptomatological subtypes and other clinical characteristics were explored.

RESULTS

Six interpretable factors were extracted: Psychotic-positive symptoms, Mania, Disorientation-Unusual Motor Behaviour, Depression, Negative Symptoms and Anxiety. On the basis of the highest z-scores, we found 6 "dominant" BPRS factor groups, that were statistically distinct and without significant overlap in the main symptomatological presentation. Only 29 (14.4%) of our patients could be described as "Dominant Manic" and 48 (23.8%) as "Dominant Depressive"; most importantly 125 (61.9%) were neither predominately-manic nor predominately-depressive. Variables including age, number of previous episodes, suicidal behavior and HAM-D and YMRS scores significantly differentiated the subtypes.

CONCLUSION

At least in the most severe forms, MS appears to represent more than the superposition of affective symptoms of opposite polarity. Anxiety, perplexity, psychotic experiences, motor disturbances and grossly disorganized behavior seem to arise from protracted intra-episodic instability and presence of a drive state influencing the mood state and the emotional resonance.

Evaluating depressive symptoms in hypomanic and manic episodes using a structured diagnostic tool: validation of a new Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (M.I.N.I.) module for the DSM-5 'With Mixed Features' specifier

Background

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition (DSM-5), includes a new 'With Mixed Features’ specifier for mood episodes. In (hypo-)manic episodes, the specifier is given if three or more depressive symptoms are present nearly every day during the episode. A new module of the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (M.I.N.I.) has been developed as a patient-completed questionnaire to evaluate the DSM-5 specifier for (hypo-)manic episodes. The objective of this study was to validate this new module.

Methods

In Phase I, patients with a manic episode in the past 6 months completed the module and were asked whether the wording was clear, understandable, relevant and specific. Based on their feedback, the module was refined and finalised. In Phase II, psychiatrists each invited five patients to complete the module. The psychiatrists completed record forms for these five patients, which included their diagnoses, made according to DSM-5 criteria during clinical interviewing. The module was validated by comparing depressive symptoms reported by the patients themselves using the M.I.N.I. module with those evaluated by their psychiatrist using DSM-5 criteria during clinical interviewing.

Results and discussion

In Phase I, a few changes were made to the M.I.N.I. module based on feedback from 20 patients (60% of whom had mixed features). In Phase II, 23 psychiatrists completed record forms for 115 patients, 99 (86.1%) of whom completed the M.I.N.I. module. Agreement between psychiatrists' DSM-5 diagnoses and patients' M.I.N.I. responses was substantial (Cohen's kappa coefficient, 0.60). The overall sensitivity of the M.I.N.I. was 0.91 and its specificity was 0.70. Sensitivity ranged from 0.63 for psychomotor retardation to 0.90 for suicidal thoughts. Specificity ranged from 0.63 for diminished interest/pleasure to 0.90 for suicidal thoughts. The module's positive and negative predictive values were 0.72 and 0.90, respectively. In summary, the M.I.N.I. module demonstrated good concurrent validity with psychiatrists' evaluation of DSM-5 mixed features in manic patients, accurately detecting mixed features with limited risk of over-diagnosis. Due to its simplicity, the M.I.N.I. module could be incorporated into routine psychiatric evaluation of patients with manic episodes. It could also provide a valuable standardised tool for clinical and epidemiological research.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/2194-7511-1-21) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Mixed states in DSM-5: implications for clinical care, education, and research

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-IV-TR) nomenclature for the co-occurrence of manic and depressive symptoms (mixed states) has been revised in the new DSM-5 version to accommodate a mixed categorical-dimensional concept. The new classification will capture subthreshold non-overlapping symptoms of the opposite pole using a "with mixed features" specifier to be applied to manic episodes in bipolar disorder I (BD I), hypomanic, and major depressive episodes experienced in BD I, BD II, bipolar disorder not otherwise specified, and major depressive disorder. The revision will have a substantial impact in several fields: epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, research, education, and regulations. The new concept is data-driven and overcomes the problems derived from the extremely narrow definition in the DSM-IV-TR. However, it is unclear how clinicians will deal with the possibility of diagnosing major depression with mixed features and how this may impact the bipolar-unipolar dichotomy and diagnostic reliability. Clinical trials may also need to address treatment effects according to the presence or absence of mixed features. The medications that are effective in treating mixed episodes per the DSM-IV-TR definition may also be effective in treating mixed features per the DSM-5, but new studies are needed to demonstrate it.

Use of asenapine in clinical practice for the management of bipolar mania

Bipolar disorder is a chronic mental illness associated with high levels of somatic morbidity, comorbidity and mortality. Treatment guidelines for bipolar mania generally recommend initiating first-line therapy with a second-generation antipsychotic or mood stabiliser, either alone or in combination. Asenapine is a second-generation antipsychotic with a unique receptor binding profile, licensed for the treatment of manic episodes in adults with bipolar I disorder. 'Real-world' data are needed to complement evidence from clinical trials, in order to provide clinicians with pragmatic information regarding the likely risks and benefits of using a new agent in clinical practice. Evidence from real-world case reports demonstrates that - as in clinical trials - asenapine is effective in treating mania and mixed episodes associated with bipolar I disorder, whether used as monotherapy or in combination with a mood stabiliser. It has a rapid onset of antimanic effect and an early improvement is associated with treatment outcome. Asenapine also shows promise in controlling depressive symptoms and clinically challenging mixed states. Asenapine has a favourable tolerability profile, compared with other first-line agents, having a minimal impact on weight and metabolic parameters. Asenapine should be considered a first-line treatment option for adults with bipolar I disorder.

The clinical management of bipolar disorder: a review of evidence-based guidelines

OBJECTIVE

To discuss the criteria used to diagnose the mood episodes that constitute bipolar disorder, the approach to the differential diagnosis of these presentations, and the evidence-based treatments that are currently available.

DATA SOURCES

A search for evidence-based guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of adults with bipolar disorder was performed on May 5, 2010, using the National Guideline Clearinghouse database, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality Evidence Reports database, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. In addition, a clinical query of the PubMed database (completed March 1, 2010) and searches of drug manufacturers' Web sites (for unpublished trials) were performed to identify randomized, controlled trials and meta-analyses evaluating strategies to treat resistant depression.

STUDY SELECTION

Guidelines were selected based on data from randomized, controlled trials; meta-analyses; and well-conducted naturalistic trials that were published since 2005.

DATA EXTRACTION

Four evidence-based treatment guidelines for bipolar disorder were included. Three were published in 2009: those put forth as part of an Australian project, those of the British Association for Psychopharmacology, and those produced by the International Society for Bipolar Disorders and the Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments. The most recent US guidelines are that of the Texas Implementation of Medication Algorithms project, last updated in 2005.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Recommendations from all 4 guidelines were reviewed and are presented with a focus on using them to improve clinical care. The recommendations with the most agreement and highest level of clinical evidence were as follows: (1) mania should be treated first-line with lithium, divalproex, or an atypical antipsychotic medication; (2) mixed episodes should be treated first-line with divalproex or an atypical antipsychotic; (3) bipolar depression should be treated with quetiapine, olanzapine/fluoxetine combination, or lamotrigine; and (4) all patients should be offered group or individual psychoeducation. Additionally, recommendations for therapeutic drug monitoring are presented due to their importance for patient safety, particularly for the primary care physician, although these are based on consensus guidelines.

CONCLUSIONS

Bipolar disorder is a lifelong illness that is complicated by high comorbidity and risk of poor health outcomes, making the primary care physician's role vital in improving patient quality of life. The management of acute mood episodes should focus first on safety, should include psychiatric consultation as soon as possible, and should begin with an evidence-based treatment that may be continued into the maintenance phase. Long-term management focuses on maintenance of euthymia, requires ongoing medication, and may benefit from adjunctive psychotherapy.

Depression symptom ratings in geriatric patients with bipolar mania

OBJECTIVE

Given the paucity of information available regarding standardized ratings of depression symptoms in bipolar manic states, and in particular those in older adults, we explored depression ratings in symptomatic participants in a multicenter study of treatment of bipolar I disorder in late life.

METHODS

Baseline data was obtained from the first 100 patients enrolled in an NIMH-funded, 9-week, randomized, double-blind RCT comparing treatment with lithium or valproate in patients of age 60 years and older with Type I Bipolar mania or hypomania. This multi-site study was conducted at six academic medical centers in the United States and enrolled inpatients and outpatients with a total Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) score of 18 or greater. Depressive symptoms were evaluated with the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D) and the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS). The criterion for at least moderate bipolar depressive symptoms was the European College of Neuropsychopharmacology (ECNP) Consensus Meeting definition of HAM-D 17 total score >20.

RESULTS

Eleven percent of patients had mixed symptoms defined by depression scale severity according to ECNP criterion. In the overall sample, total scores on the two depression scales were highly correlated. Total YMRS scores of this mixed symptom group were similar to the remainder of the sample.

CONCLUSIONS

These preliminary findings suggest that moderate to severe depressive symptoms occur in about one in ten bipolar manic elders. Future studies are needed to further evaluate symptom profiles, clinical correlates, and treatments for bipolar older adults with combined manic and depressive symptoms.

Mania and depression. Mixed, not stirred

OBJECTIVE

Current criteria for mixed bipolar episode do not allow an adequate understanding of a vast majority of bipolar patients with mixed (hypo) manic-depressive features, keeping the qualification of "mixed episodes" for bipolar type I only. This study was aimed to test the existence of a bipolar-mixed continuum by comparing the characteristics of three groups classified according to patterns of past and current manic or mixed episodes.

METHOD

134 bipolar I inpatients were divided according to their pattern of excitatory "mixed-like" episodes in three groups: 1) lifetime history of purely manic episodes without mixed features (PMA); 2) lifetime history of both manic and mixed episodes (MIX) and 3) lifetime history exclusively of mixed, but not manic, episodes (PMIX). Differences in clinical and demographic characteristics were analyzed by using chi-square head-to-head for categorical data, one-way ANOVA for continuous variables and Tukey's post-hoc comparison. Logistic regression was used to control for data validity.

RESULTS

PMIX had higher rates of depressive predominant polarity and less lifetime history of psychotic symptoms, and had received more antidepressants both lifetime and during 6 months prior to index episode. PMIX had more suicide attempts and Axis I comorbidity than PMA.

DISCUSSION

PMIX is likely to have a higher risk for suicide and higher rates of comorbidities; current DSM-IV-TR criteria are not fit for correctly classifying these patients and this may affect treatment appropriateness. The concept of "mixicity" should be extended beyond bipolar I disorder to other bipolar disorder subtypes.

Gender differences in outcomes of acute mania: a 12-month follow-up study

This study aimed to assess short-term (12 weeks) and long-term (12 months) gender differences in the outcomes of patients experiencing an episode of mania in the course of bipolar disorder. European Mania in Bipolar Longitudinal Evaluation of Medication was a 2-year, prospective, observational study of the outcomes of patients with a manic or mixed episode conducted in 14 European countries. Data were collected during the acute phase (12 weeks) and during a follow-up period (up to 12 months). Analyses were carried out in the subgroup of patients identified with a pure manic episode at baseline. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis estimated time to first occurrence of mania improvement, worsening, recovery and depressive episode, and Cox's proportional hazards models were used to analyse factors associated with these outcomes. Overall, 2,485 patients (46.6% men, 53.4% women) were included in the analysis. Frequency of substance abuse was higher in men than women. No significant gender differences were found in the severity of manic symptoms at baseline. There were no gender differences in assessment of mania improvement, worsening or recovery over 12 weeks, but more women than men showed mania improvement over 12 months (95.4% vs. 89.2%; p < 0.01). Significantly more women developed a depressive episode over 12 weeks (14.9% vs. 9.7%; p < 0.01) and over 12 months (27.7% vs. 21.5%; p < 0.001). In conclusion, the results show that there are small gender differences in the course of patients experiencing a pure manic episode. Women had a faster time to mania improvement and a higher risk of developing a depressive episode during the 12-month follow-up period.

Association between median family income and self-reported mood symptoms in bipolar disorder

OBJECTIVE

There is broad consensus from epidemiologic research that lower socioeconomic status is related to poorer health. This study investigated the relation between median family income and self-reported mood symptoms in patients with bipolar disorder who reside in the United States.

METHODS

Two hundred eighty-four patients with bipolar disorder provided daily self-reported mood ratings for 6 months (50,054 days of data). Regardless of income, all patients were treated by a psychiatrist, took psychotropic medications, and participated in computerized self-monitoring throughout the study. Median family income was obtained from US census tract data. The association between income and mood was analyzed using income as both a continuous and categorical variable. Demographic characteristics were compared by income group. Education level was included in the analysis a priori.

RESULTS

Both the continuous and categorical approaches found a positive association between income and euthymia, a negative association between income and manic/hypomanic symptoms including those due to mixed states, and no association between income and depressive symptoms. Patients in the lower-income group spent 12.4% fewer days euthymic than those in the upper-income group and 9.7% fewer days euthymic than those in the middle-income group. Patients in the lower-income group spent 7.1% more days with manic/hypomanic symptoms than those in the upper-income group. There was no association between education and income.

CONCLUSION

Median family income is associated with mood symptoms in patients with bipolar disorder. Inclusion of income as a measure of socioeconomic status is recommended for future studies of outcome in bipolar disorder.

Dissimilar morbidity following initial mania versus mixed-states in type-I bipolar disorder

BACKGROUND

Mixed-states of bipolar disorders (BPD) may predict worse future illness and more depressive than manic morbidity, challenging a tendency to conflate mixed-states and mania.

METHODS

Patients (N=247) were followed-up systematically for 24 months following hospitalization for initial major episodes of DSM-IV type-I BPD and scored for weekly interval morbidity-types.

RESULTS

Overall morbidity during follow-up was 1.6-times greater following mixed (n=97) versus manic (n=150) first-episodes of BPD (60.0 vs. 37.8%-of-weeks; p<0.0001). Patients with initial mixed-states had a nearly 12-fold later excess of mixed-states, 6.5-times more major depression, and 69% more dysthymia during follow-up than those presenting in mania. In contrast, manic first-episodes were followed by over 10-times more mania, 6-times more hypomania, and 35% more psychotic illness.

LIMITATIONS

Estimates of longitudinal morbidity may be inaccurate, and ongoing treatment may distort them.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on detailed, prospective assessments among first-episode BPD patients, those presenting in mixed-states were more ill, and much more likely to experience mixed, depressive and dysthymic morbidity during follow-up, versus much more mania, hypomania, and perhaps more psychosis following mania. The findings support two markedly dissimilar subtypes of BPD, and call for more explicit therapeutic studies of mixed-states.

Prevalence of mixed mania using 3 definitions

OBJECTIVES

Mixed episodes are a combination of depressive and manic symptoms in bipolar disorder (BD). We want to identify the proportion of patients who have depressive symptoms during an acute episode and also the validity of current methods for its diagnosis.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

Cross-sectional multicentre study of patients with type I BD who are admitted to specialized units. 368 patients in 76 centres were included. The patients should have a well established diagnosis of BD and need hospitalisation. The severity of the disorder and clinical status were evaluated upon admission and discharge using CGI-BP-M clinical impression scales, the Hamilton depression scale (HAMD-17) and the Young mania rating scale (YMRS). Upon admission, the necessary criteria for diagnosing a mixed type episode were recorded according to DSM-IV-TR, ICD-10 and McElroy criteria. Clinical judgment of the current type of episode was also recorded.

RESULTS

Prevalence estimations for mixed episodes were: 12.9% according to DSM-IV-TR (n=45), 9% according to ICD-10 (n=31), 16.7% according to McElroy criteria (n=58), and 23.2% according to clinical judgment (n=81). Statistically significant differences were found between the estimated prevalence rates (Cochrane's Q-test, p<0.0001), with the maximum concordance level found between the McElroy and ICD-10 (Kappa=0.66, 95% CI, 0.54-0.77). The DSM-IV-TR criteria only present moderate concordance with ICD-10 (Kappa=0.65, 95% CI, 0.52 to 0.78) and McElroy criteria (Kappa=0.62, 95% CI, 0.50 to 0.74).

CONCLUSIONS

The definition of mixed episodes for BD must be revised to improve consensus and, consequently, therapeutic management. Current diagnostic systems, based on DSM-IV and IDC-10, only capture a limited proportion of patients suffering from mixed episodes, giving rise to important limitations concerning the therapeutic management of BP patients.

Comparison of olanzapine and risperidone in the EMBLEM Study: translation of randomized controlled trial findings into clinical practice

Data from the EMBLEM Study, a 2-year, prospective, observational study of health outcomes associated with acute treatment of patients experiencing a manic/mixed episode of bipolar disorder, was used to compare the effectiveness of olanzapine monotherapy versus risperidone monotherapy, and to investigate whether the treatment effects were similar to those reported in a 3-week, randomized controlled trial assessing the same treatments. Symptom severity measures included the Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS), the 5-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, and the Clinical Global Impression-Bipolar Disorder Scale. A total of 245 EMBLEM inpatients were analyzed with YMRS >or=20: olanzapine (n=209), risperidone (n=36). Both the treatment groups had similar improvements in YMRS from baseline to 6 weeks, but there was a significantly greater improvement in 5-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale in the olanzapine group. There was a similar improvement in Clinical Global Impression-Bipolar Disorder Scale in both the groups and the occurrence of treatment-emergent adverse events and weight gain did not differ between the treatment groups. The EMBLEM results partly support those of the randomized controlled trial, which suggests olanzapine and risperidone have similar improvements in mania but that olanzapine monotherapy may be more effective than risperidone monotherapy in the treatment of depressive symptoms associated with mania. Limitations include differences in study design, patient population, and length of follow-up.

"Folie circulaire" vs "Folie à double forme": contribution from a French national study

OBJECTIVE

To check whether the presence or not of free intervals between episodes could help differentiate subtypes of bipolar disorder, as suggested by the seminal controversy between Falret and Baillarger.

METHODS

From 1090 bipolar I patients included in a French national study, 981 could be classified as with or without free intervals and assessed for demographic and illness characteristics.

RESULTS

Compared with patients with free intervals (n=722), those without (n=259) had an earlier age at onset, more episodes, suicide attempts, cyclothymic and irritable temperaments. The following independent variables were associated with no free intervals: being single or divorced, delay to mood stabilizer treatment, multiple hospitalizations, incongruent psychotic features, panic and generalized anxiety disorder.

CONCLUSION

"Folie à double forme" (without free intervals) and "folie circulaire" (with free intervals) may actually refer to early and later onset bipolar subtypes, insofar as most differences we found between them were previously evidenced between the latter two. We cannot, however, exclude that they might simply be two separate subtypes, whose main characteristics could be accounted for by different explanatory factors.

Bipolar depression: overview and commentary

Depressive phases are the most prevalent component of bipolar disorders, even with modern treatment. Bipolar depressive morbidity is often misdiagnosed and is limited in response to available treatments. These conditions are especially debilitating and are associated with psychiatric comorbidity, substance abuse, functional disability, and increased mortality owing to early suicide and accidents, and later medical illnesses. There is growing awareness that bipolar depression is one of the greatest challenges in modern psychiatry. It is essential to differentiate various forms of depression, dysthymia, and dysphoric mixed states of bipolar disorders from the clinical features of more common, unipolar major depressive disorders. In bipolar depression, antidepressant responses often are unsatisfactory, and these agents probably are overused. Emerging treatments, including several anticonvulsant and modern antipsychotic drugs, as well as lithium-alone or in selected combinations-are partially effective for bipolar depression. Interest in recognizing bipolar depression and seeking more effective, specific, and safer treatments for it are growing.

Morbidity in 303 first-episode bipolar I disorder patients

OBJECTIVES

To test the hypotheses that: (i) depressive-dysthymic-dysphoric (D-type) morbidity is more prevalent than manic-hypomanic-psychotic (M-type) morbidity even from first episodes of bipolar I disorder (BPD-I) and despite treatment; (ii) initial presentations predict later morbidity; (iii) morbidity varies internationally; and (iv) early and later morbidity are similar.

METHODS

We followed SCID-based, DSM-IV BPD-I patients (n = 303) systematically and prospectively for two years to estimate the percent of weeks in specific morbid states from first lifetime major episodes.

RESULTS

Total morbidity accounted for 44% of the first two years, and D-type exceeded M-type illnesses by 2.1-fold (30%/14%) among morbidities ranking: mixed states (major + minor) >or= dysthymia >or= mania >or= major depression > hypomania > psychosis. In 164 cases, morbidities at 0.5-2.5 and 2.5-4.5 years were very similar. Depressive or mixed initial episodes predicted a 3.6-fold excess of D-type morbidity, and initial M-type episodes predicted a 7.1-fold excess of M-type morbidity over two years. Morbidity in European (EU) sites was nearly half that in the U.S., and 22% greater overall among men than women. In five comparable studies, illness accounted for 54% of follow-up time, and the ratio of D/M morbidity averaged 3.0.

CONCLUSIONS

In accord with four midcourse studies, morbidity from BPD-I onset, despite treatment by community standards, averaged 44%, was 68% D-type morbidity, and was strongly predicted by first-episode polarity. Lower morbidity in EU than U.S. sites may reflect differences in healthcare or social systems.

Validity and reliability of the Hamilton depression rating scale (5 items) for manic and mixed bipolar disorders

Depressive symptoms during mania have prognostic value in bipolar disorder. For depressive symptoms, it has been proposed that shorter scales should be cost-effective and practical. To determine the usefulness of 5-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD-5) in manic and mixed bipolar disorder, we used a four-week follow-up prospective, observational study. Convergent and discriminant validity, internal consistency, and reliability were analyzed and compared with HAMD-21, HAMD-5, and HAMD-21 cut-off points were calculated versus CGI-BP. A total of 173 manic and mixed patients were evaluated. HAMD-5 showed appropriate convergent validity, discriminant validity, internal consistency, and test-retest reliability. Discriminant validity was higher for HAMD-5 than HAMD-21. Best cut-off point of remission was: HAMD-21 < or =5 and HAMD-5 < or =1. HAMD-5 presents appropriate validity and reliability estimates. It is comparable to HAMD-21 and focuses more specifically on depressive symptoms.

Lithium nephrotoxicity revisited

Lithium is widely used to treat bipolar disorder. Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus (NDI) is the most common adverse effect of lithium and occurs in up to 40% of patients. Renal lithium toxicity is characterized by increased water and sodium diuresis, which can result in mild dehydration, hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis and renal tubular acidosis. The concentrating defect and natriuretic effect develop within weeks of lithium initiation. After years of lithium exposure, full-blown nephropathy can develop, which is characterized by decreased glomerular filtration rate and chronic kidney disease. Here, we review the clinical and experimental evidence that the principal cell of the collecting duct is the primary target for the nephrotoxic effects of lithium, and that these effects are characterized by dysregulation of aquaporin 2. This dysregulation is believed to occur as a result of the accumulation of cytotoxic concentrations of lithium, which enters via the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) on the apical membrane and leads to the inhibition of signaling pathways that involve glycogen synthase kinase type 3beta. Experimental and clinical evidence demonstrates the efficacy of the ENaC inhibitor amiloride for the treatment of lithium-induced NDI; however, whether this agent can prevent the long-term adverse effects of lithium is not yet known.

A prospective study examining the effects of gender and sexual/physical abuse on mood outcomes in patients with co-occurring bipolar I and substance use disorders

OBJECTIVES

Prior research suggests possible gender differences in the longitudinal course of bipolar disorder. This study prospectively examined gender differences in mood outcomes and tested the effects of sexual/physical abuse and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

METHODS

Participants (49 men, 41 women) with co-occurring bipolar I and substance use disorders (92% alcohol, 42% drug) were enrolled in a group treatment trial. They were followed for eight months, with monthly assessments, yielding 32 weeks of data. Primary outcome measures were number of weeks in each mood state, recurrences of depression or mania, and polarity shifts from depression to mania or vice versa. Negative binomial regression was used to examine the effects of gender, lifetime abuse, and PTSD on these outcomes.

RESULTS

Participants met syndromal criteria for a mood episode on a mean of 27% of 32 weeks, with depression occurring most frequently. Compared to men, women reported significantly more weeks of mixed mania [relative rate (RR) = 8.53], fewer weeks of euthymia (RR = 0.58), more recurrences of mania (RR = 1.96), and more direct polarity shifts (RR = 1.49) (all p < 0.05). Women also reported significantly higher rates of lifetime sexual or physical abuse (68% versus 33%), which partially explained the relationships between gender and mixed mania and direct polarity shifts.

CONCLUSIONS

Participants experienced persistent mood symptoms over time. Women consistently reported poorer mood outcomes, and lifetime abuse may help explain observed gender differences in mood outcomes. Further research is necessary to better understand the treatment implications of these findings.

Randomized, placebo-controlled trial of risperidone for acute treatment of bipolar anxiety

BACKGROUND

The treatment of bipolar disorder is often complicated by the presence of a co-occuring anxiety disorder. Although second generation antipsychotics are being used with increasing frequency in bipolar patients, their anxiolytic effects have not been well studied in this population.

METHODS

The anxiolytic effect of risperidone 0.5-4 mg/day was tested in an 8-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial in 111 patients with bipolar disorder and a co-occuring panic disorder or generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). The primary outcome measure was the Clinician Global Improvement-21 Anxiety scale (CGI-21 Anxiety). Secondary measures included the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAM-A) and the Sheehan Panic Disorder Scale.

RESULTS

On the last-observation-carried forward analysis of repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA), risperidone was not more effective than placebo for the CGI-21 Anxiety score or the other anxiety outcome measures. Risperidone was well tolerated, with only two patients withdrawing because of adverse events.

LIMITATIONS

The risperidone treated group had more patients with mixed states and lifetime panic disorder at randomization than the placebo group. The study was limited to 8 weeks and to individuals with bipolar and comorbid panic disorder or GAD. The results may not be applicable to risperidone as an add-on treatment to mood stabilizers, or to bipolar disorder comorbid with anxiety disorders other than panic disorder or GAD.

CONCLUSIONS

Risperidone monotherapy was not an effective anxiolytic for bipolar patients with comorbid panic disorder or GAD in doses of 0.5-4 mg/day over 8 weeks of treatment. The efficacy of other second generation antipsychotics and mood stabilizers on anxiety in patients with bipolar disorder and a co-occuring anxiety disorder should be investigated in double-blind, placebo-controlled studies.

Risk factors associated with lifetime suicide attempts in bipolar I patients: findings from a French National Cohort

Risk factors that may be associated with suicide attempts in bipolar disorder are still a matter of debate. We compared demographic, illness course, clinical, and temperamental features of suicide attempters vs those of nonattempters in a large sample of bipolar I patients admitted for an index manic episode. One thousand ninety patients (attempters = 382, nonattempters = 708) were included in the study. Multivariate analysis evidenced 8 risk factors associated with lifetime suicide attempts as follows: multiple hospitalizations, depressive or mixed polarity of first episode, presence of stressful life events before illness onset, younger age at onset, no free intervals between episodes, female sex, higher number of previous episodes, and cyclothymic temperament. These characteristics may help identify subjects at risk for suicide attempt throughout the course of bipolar disorder. We finally propose to integrate such characteristics into a stress-diathesis model of suicidal behavior, adapted to bipolar patients.

The prevalence of thyroid disorders among sexual and violent offenders and their co‐occurrence with psychological symptoms

The prevalence of thyroid abnormalities among 831 sexual, violent, and non‐violent non‐sex offenders was found to be greater than found in the general population. Thyroid abnormalities were most common among violent offenders and among sex offenders who victimized children. Thyroid disorders were associated with psychotic diagnoses, delusions, mania, suicidal thoughts, and showed a trend to more suicide attempts. These disorders were undiagnosed in 49.1% of the cases prior to the present clinical assessment. Of these, 59.3% faced their first criminal charges, and the undiagnosed thyroid abnormalities may be important in the offenders’ treatment and may be possible legal mitigating factors in some offenses. Results indicate that a routine endocrine evaluation with blood tests would be a valuable addition to the assessment of violent and sexual offenders.