Bipolar Disorder: Etiology, Pathogenesis, Diagnosis and Treatments
Submission Deadline: 30 April 2025 (Status: Open)
Special Issue Editor(s)
Marianna Mazza Email | Website
Department of Psychiatry, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy; Department of Neuroscience, Section of Psychiatry, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
Interests: mood disorders; sleep disorders; peripartum; psychotherapy; psychopharmacology; gender psychiatry
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
Bipolar disorder (BD) is a complex neuropsychiatric condition characterized by recurrent episodes of mood disturbances, including emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). Also referred to as bipolar affective disorder, BD represents one of the leading causes of disability worldwide.
The etiology of BD is multifactorial, involving a complex interplay of genetic predisposition, neurobiological alterations, and environmental factors. Family history plays a significant role. Neurotransmitter imbalances, particularly involving serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, are also implicated in the pathogenesis of BD.
Diagnostic procedures for BD typically encompass a comprehensive clinical evaluation, including a detailed patient history and longitudinal mood charting. This multifaceted approach aids the differential diagnosis of bipolar disorder from other mood disorders. The Diagnosis and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) outlines specific symptomatic criteria and duration for both manic and depressive episodes, which are essential for accurate diagnosis and subsequent treatment planning.
Treatment for bipolar disorder typically encompasses a combination of pharmacological and psychotherapeutic approaches. Pharmacotherapy often includes mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants, which are commonly prescribed to mitigate symptomatology. Concurrent psychotherapeutic interventions and psychosocial programs are implemented to facilitate the development of adaptive coping mechanisms. Early intervention and a tailored treatment plan are crucial for improving outcomes and enhancing the quality of life for affected individuals. Given the frequent comorbidity of psychiatric and chronic medical conditions in this patient population, a multidisciplinary approach that integrates psychiatric and medical healthcare is warranted. This integrated care model aims to achieve optimal therapeutic outcomes through comprehensive management of both psychiatric symptoms and concurrent medical conditions in patients with bipolar disorder.
Dr. Marianna Mazza
Guest Editor
Keywords
bipolar disorder; mania; depression; pharmacotherapy; psychotherapy; personalized care
Manuscript Submission Information
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