Conference paper

THE DEVELOPMENTAL STAGES OF BIPOLAR DISORDER: A CASE REPORT

Fatima Imam Chaudhry ; St. John’s College, University of Cambridge, School of Medicine, Cambridge, UK
Norma Verdolini ; School of Specialization in Psychiatry, University of Perugia, Santa Maria della Misericordia Hospital, Perugia, Italy
Mark Agius ; East London Partnership Foundation Trust, Bedfordshire Centre for Mental Health Research in association with the University of Cambridge, Clare College Cambridge, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge UK

Abstract

Bipolar disorder is a developing disorder; its early stages are sometimes misdiagnosed as anxiety or depressive disorders. At the
same time, these disorders are often in comorbidity with bipolar disorder. This complex symptomatology can lead to
misinterpretation and underdiagnosis of bipolar disorders, mainly at the earliest stages. Consequently, one of the most important
challenges for clinicians is to recognize the non specific early symptoms with the aid of clinical information, for example a family
history of bipolar disorder. Furthermore, it is well-known that comorbid anxiety disorders can lead to a worse prognosis in bipolar
patients but it is not exactly clear to what extent. A deeper understanding of the relationship between these comorbidities and their
stage of development will hopefully lead to better care of patients with bipolar disorder from a younger age.

Keywords

bipolar disorder; anxiety; OCD; comorbidity; illness developmental trajectory

Hrčak ID:

264492

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/264492

Publication date:

8.9.2015.

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