Bipolar disorder in children

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Comparison of bipolar disorder subtypes: Bipolar I, Bipolar II, and cyclothymia Bipolar disorder subtypes comparison between Bipolar I, II disorder and Cyclothymia.svg
Comparison of bipolar disorder subtypes: Bipolar I, Bipolar II, and cyclothymia

Bipolar disorder in children, or pediatric bipolar disorder (PBD), is a rare mental disorder similar to bipolar disorder in adults. The diagnosis of bipolar disorder in children has been heavily debated for many reasons, including the potential harmful effects of adult bipolar medication on children. PBD has been proposed as an explanation for periods of extreme shifts in mood, called mood episodes. [1] [2] These shifts alternate between periods of depression or irritability and periods of abnormally elevated moods, called manic or hypomanic episodes. [1] Mixed mood episodes can occur when someone with PBD experiences depressive and manic symptoms simultaneously. [2] PBD mood episodes are different from general shifts in mood experienced by children and adolescents because mood episodes last for long periods of time (i.e. days, weeks, or years) and cause severe disruptions to an individual's life. [2] There are three known forms of PBD: bipolar I, bipolar II, and bipolar disorder not otherwise specified (BD-NOS). [2] The average age of onset of PBD remains unclear, but the reported age of onset ranges from 5 to 19 years old. [3] PBD is typically more severe and has a poorer prognosis than bipolar disorder with onset in late adolescence or adulthood. [4]

Contents

Since 1980, the DSM has specified that the criteria for bipolar disorder in adults can also be applied to children with some adjustments based on developmental differences. [5] Genetics and environment are considered risk factors for the development of bipolar disorder, but the exact cause is currently unknown. Diagnosis of bipolar disorder requires evaluation by a professional, and diagnosis of PBD typically requires more in-depth observation due to children's inability to report symptoms properly.

Causes

While there is limited understanding of the development of bipolar disorder, research shows that there are many environmental and biological risk factors. [2] Family history is a strong predictor of childhood development of bipolar disorder, with genetics contributing to risk by up to 50%. [2] [6] [7] However, family history does not lead to a certain diagnosis of PBD in a child. Only 6% of children with parents diagnosed with bipolar disorder also have bipolar disorder. [2] Still, children of parents with bipolar disorder should be monitored, especially if they exhibit sleep disturbances and symptoms of anxiety disorders early on. [6] Other factors that can contribute to PBD include substance use disorder and childhood adversity such as abuse or school trauma. [8] [9]

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is made based on a clinical interview by a licensed mental health professional. There are no blood tests or imaging to diagnose bipolar disorder. [10] PBD can be difficult to diagnose, especially in children under 11–12 years, as they may be unable to self-assess and communicate symptoms properly. [11] Therefore, it is helpful to obtain information from multiple sources, such as family members and teachers, and use questionnaires and checklists for a more accurate diagnosis. [6] Commonly used assessment tools include the K-SADS (Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia), the Diagnostic Interview Schedule for Children (DISC), and the Child Mania Rating Scale (CMRS). [5] It is important to assess the child's baseline mood and behavior and determine if symptoms present episodically. Parents are often encouraged to keep mood logs to assist with this. [5] Family history is also important to obtain, as bipolar disorder is heritable. Medication, substance use, and other medical problems should be ruled out to diagnose bipolar disorder accurately. [6]

Early diagnosis and treatment of PBD lead to better outcomes. Anxiety disorders and sleep disturbances often precede mood symptoms. [6] [7] If a child presents with these symptoms alongside major changes in energy and deterioration of function, especially in school, this may warrant evaluation for PBD. [8]

It can be difficult to distinguish PBD due to overlapping symptoms with other conditions such as ADHD, OCD, autism spectrum disorder, depression, anxiety, and conduct disorders. [12] [13] Irritability, distractibility, and poor judgment are symptoms commonly seen in PBD and ADHD. Elated mood and decreased need for sleep can be specifically diagnostic of PBD. [6]

Signs and symptoms

The American Psychiatric Association's DSM-5 and the World Health Organization's ICD-10 use the same criteria to diagnose bipolar disorder in adults and children with some adjustments to account for differences in age and developmental stage, particularly with depressive episodes. [5] [14] For example, the DSM-5 specifies that children may exhibit persistently irritable moods instead of a depressed mood. [1] Additionally, children will more than likely fail to meet their expected body weight instead of presenting with weight loss. [8]

In diagnosing manic episodes, it is important to compare the changes in mood and behavior to the child's baseline mood and behaviors instead of to other children or adults. [6] For example, grandiosity (i.e., unrealistic overestimation of one's intelligence, talent, or abilities) is normal at varying degrees during childhood and adolescence. Therefore, grandiosity is only considered symptomatic of mania in children when the beliefs are held despite being presented with concrete evidence otherwise or when they lead to a child attempting activities that are clearly dangerous, and most importantly, when the beliefs are an obvious change from a child's baseline self-image. [1]

It is important to distinguish if irritability is related to bipolar disorder or another condition as it is commonly in other childhood disorders. [5] If irritability is persistent, it is important to differentiate from chronic irritability seen in disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD). [8]

PBD and ADHD, in particular, have many overlapping symptoms, such as the hyperactivity characteristic of manic episodes. [15] Many children and adolescents with PBD are misdiagnosed with ADHD. [15] Misdiagnosis can lead to complications, as some medications for other disorders can exacerbate symptoms of PBD. [16]

Manic episodes include

  • Elevated mood (or increased silliness in children)
  • Rapid speech that is difficult to interrupt
  • Decreased need for sleep
  • Racing thoughts
  • Increased interests/participation in activities (especially those considered more reckless)
  • Inflated sense of ability [10]

Depressive episodes include

  • Frequent and unprovoked sadness
  • Physical pain (stomach aches, headaches)
  • Sleeping more
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Feelings of worthlessness/hopelessness
  • Changes in eating habits [10]

Subtypes

According to the DSM-5, there are three subtypes of bipolar disorder: bipolar I, bipolar II, and bipolar disorder not otherwise specified (BD-NOS). [1] [2] Just as in adults, bipolar I is the most severe form of PBD, can impair sleep and general function, and can lead to hospitalization. [2] BD-NOS is the mildest form of PBD. [2] The criteria for distinguishing subtypes is the same as that for bipolar disorder in adults.

Controversy

The diagnosis of childhood bipolar disorder has been heavily debated. [5] It is recognized that the typical symptoms of bipolar disorder are dysfunctional and have negative consequences for minors with the condition. [17] The main discussion is centered on whether what is called bipolar disorder in children is the same as adult bipolar disorder [18] and whether the criteria for adult diagnosis is useful and accurate for children. [5] There are also questions about how mania differs between children and adults. [12]

There are significant differences in how commonly PBD is diagnosed across clinics and in different countries. In the United States, there were concerns about over diagnosis and misdiagnosis of PBD. [5] [19] More understanding and research led to a decrease in PBD diagnosis from the mid-2000s to 2010. [20] This is likely due to the various challenges of identifying bipolar disorder in youth. PBD has many[ which? ] overlapping symptoms with other[ which? ] childhood conditions.[ medical citation needed ]

Management

A combination of medication and psychosocial intervention is recommended for most children with PBD. This combination has been proven to lead to improved prognosis. [13] [7] [9] Choosing the best treatment involves considering the child's age, psychosocial environment, presentation and severity of symptoms, and family history. [7]

Medication

Mood stabilizers, which help manage manic episodes, and atypical antipsychotics, which help manage both manic and depressive episodes, have been demonstrated to be the safest and most effective for treating PBD. [8] [13] Mood stabilizers used for the treatment of PBD include lithium, valproic acid, divalproex sodium, carbamazepine, and lamotrigine. [21] Lithium is FDA approved for those 12 years and older and appears to be particularly effective in children with a family history of mood disorders, especially if family members have been successfully treated with lithium. [5] [9] Atypical antipsychotics FDA approved for treatment of PBD include risperidone, cariprazine, lurasidone, olanzapine-fluoxetine combination, and quetiapine. [21] Risperidone has been approved for use in children 10 and older. [5] Medications have also proved effective when combined, whether that is multiple mood stabilizers or a mood stabilizer with an atypical antipsychotic. [5]

Medications for the treatment of PBD can produce significant side effects, so it is recommended that families of patients be informed. [18] Although atypical antipsychotics are more effective in treating PBD than mood stabilizers, they can lead to more side effects. [17] [22] Typical antipsychotics may cause weight gain and other metabolic problems, including diabetes mellitus type 2 and hyperlipidemia. Extrapyramidal secondary effects may occur with the use of these medications, including tardive dyskinesia, a movement disorder that is difficult to treat. [23] Liver and kidney damage may occur as a result of the use of mood stabilizers. [18] Lithium overdose can also occur in individuals with low sodium levels. [21] Pediatric populations often struggle with medication adherence for PBD, which can be improved with motivational interviewing techniques. [13]

Psychotherapy

Psychological treatment for PBD can take on several different forms such as psychoeducation, psychotherapy, and alternative treatments. [24] One form of psychotherapy is psychoeducation, in which children with bipolar disorder and their families are informed, in ways accordingly to their age and family role, about the different aspects of bipolar disorder and its management including causes, signs and symptoms and treatments. [21] Similarly, family-focused therapy (FFT) is therapy for both individuals with PBD and their caregivers, in which families take part in communication improvement training and problem-solving skills training. [21] Group therapy aims to improve social skills and manage group conflicts, with role-playing as a critical tool. Another type of therapy used in individuals with PBD is chronotherapy, which helps children and adolescents form a healthy sleep pattern, as sleep is often disrupted by PBD symptoms. [21] Finally, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) aims to give participants better understanding and control of their emotions and behaviors. [12]

Psychotherapy can be tailored to each individual and address needs that medication alone cannot to help improve lifestyle and functionality. Additionally, psychotherapy improves medication adherence. [7]

Alternative treatments are currently being developed for pediatric populations with PBD in which medication and psychotherapy has proven to be ineffective. Currently, interventions involving dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) are being explored due to the focus on mindfulness and distress tolerance skill building. According to the APA, studies have shown that DBT may lead to decreased suicidal ideation compared to typical psychosocial treatments. Nutritional interventions are also currently undergoing further research along with other lifestyle modifications including exercise and proper sleep habits. [13] [9]

Prognosis

Bipolar disorder is a chronic condition that requires lifelong care and treatment. [2] Without proper treatment, PBD often has a poor prognosis. [21] Chronic adherence to medication is often needed, with relapses of individuals reaching rates over 90% in those not following medication indications and almost 40% in those complying with medication regimens in some studies. [12] Other risk factors for poor outcomes of PBD and increased severity of symptoms are comorbid pathologies and early onset of disease. [6] [8] [18] [9]

Children with PBD, especially early onset, are more likely to commit suicide than other children, as well as misuse alcohol and/or other drugs. [5] [6] [8] [21] Studies have shown that among adolescents with PBD, 44% report a lifetime suicide rate, twice as much compared to teens diagnosed major depressive disorder. [25] Children and adolescents with PBD are also at an increased risk for behavior that can result in incarceration. [21]

Hypomanic episodes in adolescents have been shown to not always progress into adult bipolar disorder. [26] However, research surrounding PBD emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis of PBD for improved prognosis. [26]

Comorbid conditions

The most common comorbidities seen with PBD is ADHD (80%) and oppositional defiant disorder (47%). [27] Anywhere between 13.2% to 29% of patients with bipolar disorder are diagnosed with conduct disorder, substance use disorders, anxiety disorders, or borderline personality disorder. [6] [8] [27]

Comorbid ADHD can be diagnosed if symptoms such as hyperactivity and distractibility are present persistently. If they are only episodic, this is likely a symptom of PBD. [6] Therefore, it is important to carefully evaluate onset of symptoms and course of time present. While difficulty with sleep can be present in both, patients with bipolar disorder typically have a decreased need for sleep during manic episodes, whereas children with ADHD will have sleep problems with increased fatigue. Grandiosity is also a distinguishing factor: mania typically presents with increased self-esteem, while children with ADHD may have lower self-esteem. [15]

Epidemiology

Globally, the prevalence of PBD is estimated at 3.9% as of 2019. [21] [26] However, 5 surveys (from Brazil, England, Turkey, and the United States) have reported pre-adolescence rates of PBD as zero or close to zero. [26]

The increase in PBD in the United States is attributed to the cohort effect (shared circumstances of more recently born children) as well as the anticipation effect (the earlier onset of genetic conditions in later generations). [28]

History

Descriptions of children with symptoms similar to contemporary concepts of mania date back to the 18th century. In 1898, a detailed psychiatric case history was published about a 13-year-old that met Jean-Pierre Falret and Jules Baillarger's criteria for folie circulaire, which is congruent to the modern conception of bipolar I disorder. [29]

In Emil Kraepelin's descriptions of bipolar disorder in the 1920s, which he called "manic depressive insanity", he noted the rare possibility that it could occur in children. In addition to Kraepelin, Adolf Meyer, Karl Abraham, and Melanie Klein were some of the first to document bipolar disorder symptoms in children in the first half of the 20th century. [30] It was not mentioned much in English literature until the 1970s when interest in researching the subject increased. It became more accepted as a diagnosis in children in the 1980s after the DSM-III (1980) specified that the same criteria for diagnosing bipolar disorder in adults could also be applied to children. [5]

Recognition came twenty years after, with epidemiological studies showing that approximately 20% of adults with bipolar disorder already had symptoms in childhood or adolescence. Nevertheless, onset before age 10 was thought to be rare, below 0.5% of the cases. During the second half of the century misdiagnosis with schizophrenia was not rare in the non-adult population due to common co-occurrence of psychosis and mania. This issue diminished with an increased following of the DSM criteria in the last part of the 20th century. [18] [31]

References

  1. 1 2 3 4 5 American Psychiatric Association (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) (Fifth ed.). American Psychiatric Pub. pp. 272–288. ISBN   978-0-89042-557-2.
  2. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 "Bipolar Disorder | Boston Children's Hospital". www.childrenshospital.org. Retrieved 2023-03-30.
  3. ↑ Goetz M, Novak T, Vesela M, Hlavka Z, Brunovsky M, Povazan M, et al. (November 2015). "Early stages of pediatric bipolar disorder: retrospective analysis of a Czech inpatient sample". Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment. 11: 2855–2864. doi: 10.2147/NDT.S79586 . PMC   4639550 . PMID   26604770.
  4. ↑ "Mood Disorders: Pediatric Bipolar Disorder" (PDF), Collection of Evidence-based Practices for Children and Adolescents with Mental Health Treatment Needs, 5th Edition, Commonwealth of Virginia Commission on Youth, 2013, House Document No. 7, retrieved January 10, 2017
  5. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Renk K, White R, Lauer BA, McSwiggan M, Puff J, Lowell A (2014). "Bipolar disorder in children". Psychiatry Journal. 2014 928685. doi: 10.1155/2014/928685 . PMC   3994906 . PMID   24800202.
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  14. ↑ Parry PI, Richards LM (November 2014). "Stark discrepancy in pediatric bipolar diagnoses between the US and UK/Australia". Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. 53 (11): 1234–1235. doi:10.1016/j.jaac.2014.08.012. PMID   25440313.
  15. 1 2 3 "Can Bipolar Disorder Be Misdiagnosed as ADHD?". Psych Central. 2022-03-23. Retrieved 2023-03-30.
  16. ↑ Amerio A, Odone A, Marchesi C, Ghaemi SN (September 2014). "Treatment of comorbid bipolar disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder: a systematic review". Journal of Affective Disorders. 166: 258–263. doi:10.1016/j.jad.2014.05.026. PMID   25012439.
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  19. ↑ Ghouse AA, Sanches M, Zunta-Soares G, Swann AC, Soares JC (November 2013). "Overdiagnosis of bipolar disorder: a critical analysis of the literature". TheScientificWorldJournal. 2013 297087. doi: 10.1155/2013/297087 . PMC   3856145 . PMID   24348150.
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  21. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 "Bipolar Disorder in Children: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment". Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved 2023-03-30.
  22. ↑ Jochim J, Rifkin-Zybutz RP, Geddes J, Cipriani A (October 2019). "Valproate for acute mania". The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2019 (10) CD004052. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD004052.pub2. PMC   6797024 . PMID   31621892.
  23. ↑ "What Is Tardive Dyskinesia?". WebMD. Retrieved 2023-03-31.
  24. ↑ www.apa.org https://www.apa.org/monitor/2020/10/ce-corner-bipolar? . Retrieved 2025-03-06.{{cite web}}: Missing or empty |title= (help)
  25. ↑ Goldstein TR, Birmaher B, Axelson D, Ryan ND, Strober MA, Gill MK, et al. (December 2005). "History of suicide attempts in pediatric bipolar disorder: factors associated with increased risk". Bipolar Disorders. 7 (6): 525–535. doi:10.1111/j.1399-5618.2005.00263.x. PMC   3679347 . PMID   16403178.
  26. 1 2 3 4 Parry P, Allison S, Bastiampillai T (June 2021). "'Pediatric Bipolar Disorder' rates are still lower than claimed: a re-examination of eight epidemiological surveys used by an updated meta-analysis". International Journal of Bipolar Disorders. 9 (1) 21. doi: 10.1186/s40345-021-00225-5 . PMC   8233426 . PMID   34170440.
  27. 1 2 Fahrendorff AM, Pagsberg AK, Kessing LV, Maigaard K (August 2023). "Psychiatric comorbidity in patients with pediatric bipolar disorder - A systematic review". Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica. 148 (2): 110–132. doi: 10.1111/acps.13548 . PMID   36941106.
  28. ↑ "Further Evidence of a Cohort Effect in Bipolar Disorder: More Early Onsets and Family History of Psychiatric Illness in More Recent Epochs". Psychiatrist.com.
  29. ↑ Mason BL, Brown ES, Croarkin PE (July 2016). "Historical Underpinnings of Bipolar Disorder Diagnostic Criteria". Behavioral Sciences. 6 (3): 14. doi: 10.3390/bs6030014 . PMC   5039514 . PMID   27429010.
  30. ↑ Renk K, White R, Lauer BA, McSwiggan M, Puff J, Lowell A (2014). "Bipolar disorder in children". Psychiatry Journal. 2014 928685. doi: 10.1155/2014/928685 . PMC   3994906 . PMID   24800202.
  31. ↑ Anthony J, Scott P (1960). "Manic-depressive psychosis in childhood". Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry. 1 (1): 53–72. doi:10.1111/j.1469-7610.1960.tb01979.x.
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