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Rapidly cycling bipolar disorder and multiple sclerosis.
The American Journal of Psychiatry
|January 1, 1984
Summary
Rapidly cycling bipolar disorder may indicate underlying multiple sclerosis in some patients. Clinicians should consider multiple sclerosis in the differential diagnosis for affective disorders with subtle neurological symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder characterized by shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels.
- Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, inflammatory disease affecting the central nervous system.
Observation:
- Two patients presented with rapidly cycling bipolar disorder.
- These patients were subsequently diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.
Findings:
- A potential association between rapidly cycling bipolar disorder and multiple sclerosis is suggested.
- The co-occurrence in these cases highlights an underrecognized link.
Implications:
- Multiple sclerosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients with affective disorders and minor neurological complaints.
- This may lead to earlier diagnosis and improved management for patients with both conditions.