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Hemochromatosis-induced bipolar disorder: a case report
Daniele Serata1, Antonio Del Casale, Chiara Rapinesi
1NESMOS (Neurosciences, Mental Health and Sensory Functions) Department, School of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University, Sant'Andrea Hospital, UOC Psychiatry, Via di Grottarossa 1035-1037, 00189 Rome, Italy. seratadaniele@gmail.com
General Hospital Psychiatry
|July 14, 2011
Summary
High iron overload, specifically hemochromatosis, may cause bipolar disorder symptoms. Treating iron overload through phlebotomy resolved the patient's bipolar disorder, suggesting a link between iron levels and mood regulation.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
- Hematology
Background:
- Bipolar disorder is a complex mood disorder.
- Hemochromatosis is a genetic disorder causing excess iron absorption.
Observation:
- A patient with treatment-resistant bipolar disorder was diagnosed with high iron hemochromatosis.
- Mood symptoms in patients with iron overload were reviewed in existing literature.
Findings:
- Phlebotomy, a treatment to reduce iron levels, led to complete resolution of bipolar symptoms in the patient.
- Animal studies indicate iron overload can affect brain function.
Implications:
- Iron overload, particularly hemochromatosis, should be considered in patients with bipolar disorder.
- Genetic testing for hemochromatosis may be beneficial for diagnosing and treating resistant bipolar disorder.
- Early diagnosis and treatment of iron overload could potentially prevent or manage bipolar disorder, reducing reliance on psychotropic medications.
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