Letter to the Editor

Differentiating Bipolar Disorder from Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Children

Authors: Vivek C. Shah, MD, Lalit Patel, BS, Steven Lippmann, MD

Abstract

To the Editor: Bipolar disorder (BD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are two mental health conditions of childhood with high degrees of comorbidity. BD is a recurrent, familial ailment that occurs in 1% to 3% of youth, particularly in adolescents.1 The persistence and rapid change in symptoms at crucial stages of life affect development and psychosocial functioning. This increases the risk during childhood for anxiety, substance abuse, suicide, and legal problems.2

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References

1. Merikangas K, Nakamura EF, Kessler RC. Epidemiology of mental disorders in children and adolescents. Dialogues Clin Neurosci 2009;11:7-20.
 
2. Mitchell R HB, Goldstein BI. High psychiatric and medical comorbidity in youth with bipolar disorder and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Psychiatr Ann 2014;44:459-46.
 
3. Luckenbaugh DA, Findling RL, Leverich GS, et al. Earliest symptoms discriminating juvenileonset bipolar illness from ADHD. Bipolar Disord 2009;11:441-451.
 
4. Baum R, Kowatch RA. An irritable, inattentive and disruptive child: is it ADHD or bipolar disorder? Curr Psychiatry 2014;13:30-44.
 
5. Swann AC, Geller B, Post RM, et al. Practical clues to early recognition of bipolar disorder: a primary care approach. Prim Care Companion J Clin Psychiatry 2005;7:15-21.