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Goldstein BI. Editorial: The Challenge of Psychopharmacological Treatment of Anxiety Among Youth Offspring of Parents With Bipolar Disorder. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2024; 63:396-398. [PMID: 37992856 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2023.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Mood disorders, including bipolar disorder (BD) and major depressive disorder (MDD), are leading causes of disability worldwide. MDD is the leading cause of disability beginning at age 10 years and thereafter, and BD is the fourth leading cause of disability in adolescents.1 Although one might expect that at a young age, and with a short duration of illness, mood disorders in youth are less complex than in adults, this is far from the reality. Even in epidemiologic, representative samples that do not have the same sample selection biases as clinical studies, mood disorders in youth are characterized by high rates of psychiatric comorbidity and suicidality.2-4 The perniciousness of mood disorders in youth necessitates strategies to enhance prediction of future mood disorders among those at risk, to guide prevention and early intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin I Goldstein
- Centre for Youth Bipolar Disorder, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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2
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Miklowitz DJ, Weintraub MJ, Walshaw PD, Schneck CD, Chang KD, Merranko J, Garrett AS, Singh MK. Early Family Intervention for Youth at Risk for Bipolar Disorder: Psychosocial and Neural Mediators of Outcome. Curr Neuropharmacol 2023; 21:1379-1392. [PMID: 36635932 PMCID: PMC10324335 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x21666230111120817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2022] [Revised: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The impairing neurodevelopmental course of bipolar disorder (BD) suggests the importance of early intervention for youth in the beginning phases of the illness. OBJECTIVE We report the results of a 3-site randomized trial of family-focused therapy for youth at high-risk (FFT-HR) for BD, and explore psychosocial and neuroimaging variables as mediators of treatment effects. METHODS High-risk youth (<18 years) with major depressive disorder or other specified BD, active mood symptoms, and a family history of BD were randomly assigned to 4 months of FFT-HR (psychoeducation, communication and problem-solving skills training) or 4 months of enhanced care psychoeducation. Adjunctive pharmacotherapy was provided by study psychiatrists. Neuroimaging scans were conducted before and after psychosocial treatments in eligible participants. Independent evaluators interviewed participants every 4-6 months over 1-4 years regarding symptomatic outcomes. RESULTS Among 127 youth (mean 13.2 ± 2.6 years) over a median of 98 weeks, FFT-HR was associated with longer intervals prior to new mood episodes and lower levels of suicidal ideation than enhanced care. Reductions in perceived family conflict mediated the effects of psychosocial interventions on the course of mood symptoms. Among 34 participants with pre-/post-treatment fMRI scans, youth in FFT-HR had (a) stronger resting state connectivity between ventrolateral PFC and anterior default mode network, and (b) increased activity of dorsolateral and medial PFC in emotion processing and problem-solving tasks, compared to youth in enhanced care. CONCLUSION FFT-HR may delay new mood episodes in symptomatic youth with familial liability to BD. Putative treatment mechanisms include neural adaptations suggestive of improved emotion regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J. Miklowitz
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Marc J. Weintraub
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Patricia D. Walshaw
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Kiki D. Chang
- Private Practice, 2460 Park Blvd, Suite 6 Palo Alto, CA 94306 USA
| | - John Merranko
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Amy S. Garrett
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas, Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
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Mood Instability in Youth at High Risk for Bipolar Disorder. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2022; 61:1285-1295. [PMID: 35307538 PMCID: PMC9728243 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2022.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Mood instability is associated with the onset of bipolar disorder (BD) in youth with a family history of the illness. In a clinical trial with youth at high risk for BD, we examined the association between mood instability and symptomatic, psychosocial, and familial functioning over an average of 2 years. METHOD Youth (aged 9-17 years) with major depressive disorder or other specified BD, current mood symptoms, and a family history of BD were rated by parents on a mood instability scale. Participants were randomly assigned to 4 months of family-focused therapy or enhanced care psychoeducation, both with medication management as needed. Independent evaluators rated youth every 4-6 months for up to 4 years on symptom severity and psychosocial functioning, whereas parents rated mood instability of the youth and levels of family conflict. RESULTS High-risk youth (N = 114; mean age 13.3 ± 2.6 years; 72 female) were followed for an average of 104.3 ± 65.8 weeks (range, 0-255 weeks) after randomization. Youth with other specified BD (vs major depressive disorder), younger age, earlier symptom onset, more severe mood symptoms, lower psychosocial functioning, and more familial conflict over time had higher mood instability ratings throughout the study period. Mood instability mediated the association between baseline diagnosis and mother/offspring conflict at follow-up (Z = 2.88, p = .004, αβ = 0.19, 95% CI = 0.06-0.32). Psychosocial interventions did not moderate these associations. CONCLUSION A questionnaire measure of mood instability tracked closely with symptomatic, psychosocial, and family functioning in youth at high risk for BD. Interventions that are successful in reducing mood instability may enhance long-term outcomes among high-risk youth. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION INFORMATION Early Intervention for Youth at Risk for Bipolar Disorder; https://clinicaltrials.gov/; NCT01483391.
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Alterations in blood proteins in the prodromal stage of bipolar II disorders. Sci Rep 2022; 12:3174. [PMID: 35210508 PMCID: PMC8873249 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-07160-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Although early intervention may help prevent the progression of bipolar disorder, there are some controversies over early pharmacological intervention. In this study, we recruited 40 subjects in the prodromal stage of BD-II (BP), according to bipolar at-risk state criteria. We compared the expression of their plasma proteins with that of 48 BD-II and 75 healthy control (HC) to identify markers that could be detected in a high-risk state. The multiple reaction monitoring method was used to measure target peptide levels with high accuracy. A total of 26 significant peptides were identified through analysis of variance with multiple comparisons, of which 19 were differentially expressed in the BP group when compared to the BD-II and HC groups. Two proteins were overexpressed in the BP group; and were related to pro-inflammation and impaired neurotransmission. The other under-expressed peptides in the BP group were related to blood coagulation, immune reactions, lipid metabolism, and the synaptic plasticity. In this study, significant markers observed in the BP group have been reported in patients with psychiatric disorders. Overall, the results suggest that the pathophysiological changes included in BD-II had already occurred with BP, thus justifying early pharmacological treatment to prevent disease progression.
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Weintraub MJ, Schneck CD, Singh MK, Walshaw PD, Chang KD, Sullivan AE, Miklowitz DJ. Longitudinal relationship between maternal distress and pediatric mood symptoms in youth with mood disorders. J Psychiatr Res 2021; 144:353-359. [PMID: 34735839 PMCID: PMC8667659 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2021.10.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Parents of a child with a mood disorder report significant levels of distress and burden from caregiving. This study examined whether maternal distress varies over time with levels of mood symptoms in youth with mood disorders, and whether expressed emotion (EE) and family functioning moderate these associations. We recruited youth (ages 9-17 years) with mood disorders and familial risk for bipolar disorder (BD) for a randomized trial of family-focused therapy compared to standard psychoeducation. Participants were assessed every 4-6 months for up to 4 years. Using repeated-measures mixed effects modeling, we examined the longitudinal effects of youths' mood symptoms and maternal distress concurrently, as well as whether each variable predicted the other in successive study intervals. Secondary analyses examined the moderating effects of EE and ratings of family cohesion and adaptability on maternal distress. In sample of 118 youth-mother dyads, levels of self-reported parental distress decreased over time, with no differences between treatment conditions. Youths' depressive symptoms and, most strongly, mood lability were associated with greater maternal distress longitudinally; however, maternal distress did not predict youths' mood symptoms or lability. The effect of youth symptoms on maternal distress was greater among mothers who were high EE. Family cohesion was associated with reduced concurrent ratings of maternal distress, whereas family adaptability was associated with reduced maternal distress at successive follow-ups. While maternal distress decreases over time as youths' symptoms decrease, mothers of youth with mood disorders experience significant distress that is directly linked to the youths' depressive symptom severity and lability. Improved family functioning appears to be an important mechanism by which to intervene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc J. Weintraub
- Semel Institute of Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA,Corresponding author. UCLA Semel Institute, Department of Psychiatry, 760 Westwood Plaza, A7-370, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA. (M.J. Weintraub)
| | | | | | - Patricia D. Walshaw
- Semel Institute of Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | | | - David J. Miklowitz
- Semel Institute of Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Garrett AS, Chang KD, Singh MK, Armstrong CC, Walshaw PD, Miklowitz DJ. Neural changes in youth at high risk for bipolar disorder undergoing family-focused therapy or psychoeducation. Bipolar Disord 2021; 23:604-614. [PMID: 33432670 PMCID: PMC8273209 DOI: 10.1111/bdi.13045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with mood disorders may benefit from psychosocial interventions through changes in brain networks underlying emotion processing. In this study, we used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to investigate treatment-related changes in emotion processing networks in youth at familial high risk for bipolar disorder (BD). METHODS Youth, ages 9-17, were randomly assigned to family-focused therapy for high-risk youth (FFT-HR) or an active comparison treatment, Enhanced Care (EC). Before and after these 4-month treatments, participants underwent fMRI while viewing happy, fearful, and calm facial expressions. Twenty youth in FFT-HR and 20 in EC were included in analyses of pre- to post-treatment changes in activation across the whole brain. Significant clusters were assessed for correlation with mood symptom improvement. RESULTS In the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), activation increased from pre- to post-treatment in the FFT-HR group and decreased in the EC group. Insula activation decreased in the FFT-HR group and did not change in the EC group. Across both treatments, decreasing activation in the hippocampus and amygdala was correlated with pre- to post-treatment improvement in hypomania, while increasing activation in the DLPFC was correlated with pre- to post-treatment improvement in depression. DISCUSSION Psychosocial treatment addresses abnormalities in emotion regulation networks in youth at high risk for BD. Increased prefrontal cortex activation suggests enhanced emotion regulation from pre- to post-treatment with FFT-HR. Improvements in family interactions may facilitate the development of prefrontal resources that provide protection against future mood episodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy S. Garrett
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | | | - Manpreet K. Singh
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Casey C. Armstrong
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Patricia D. Walshaw
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - David J. Miklowitz
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Singh MK, Nimarko AF, Garrett AS, Gorelik AJ, Roybal DJ, Walshaw PD, Chang KD, Miklowitz DJ. Changes in Intrinsic Brain Connectivity in Family-Focused Therapy Versus Standard Psychoeducation Among Youths at High Risk for Bipolar Disorder. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2021; 60:458-469. [PMID: 32745598 PMCID: PMC7854810 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaac.2020.07.892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Revised: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We compared intrinsic network connectivity in symptomatic youths at high risk (HR) for bipolar disorder (BD) and healthy comparison (HC) youths. In HR youths, we also investigated treatment-related changes in intrinsic connectivity after family-focused therapy for high-risk youths (FFT-HR) vs standardized family psychoeducation. METHOD HR youths (N = 34; age 9-17 years; mean 14 years, 56% girls and 44% boys) with depressive and/or hypomanic symptoms and at least 1 first- or second-degree relative with BD I or II were randomly assigned to 4 months of FFT-HR (12 sessions of psychoeducation, communication, and problem-solving skills training) or enhanced care (EC; 3 family and 3 individual psychoeducation sessions). Before and after 4 months of treatment, participants underwent resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI). A whole-brain independent component analysis compared rs-fMRI networks in HR youths and 30 age-matched HC youths at a pretreatment baseline. Then we identified pretreatment to posttreatment (4-month) changes in network connectivity in HR youths receiving FFT-HR (n = 16) or EC (n = 18) and correlated these changes with depression improvement. RESULTS At baseline, HR youths had greater connectivity between the ventrolateral prefrontal cortex (VLPFC) and the anterior default mode network (aDMN) than did HCs (p = .004). Over 4 months of treatment, FFT-HR-assigned HR youths had increased VLPFC-aDMN connectivity from pre- to posttreatment (p = .003), whereas HR youths in EC showed no significant change over time (p = .11) (treatment by time interaction, t31 = 3.33, 95% CI = 0.27-1.14, p = .002]. Reduction in depression severity over 4 months inversely correlated with enhanced anterior DMN (r = -0.71) connectivity in the FFT-HR but not in the EC (r = -0.07) group (z = -2.17, p = .015). CONCLUSION Compared to standard psychoeducation, FFT-HR is associated with stronger connectivity between the VLPFC and aDMN, suggesting possible enhancements of self-awareness, illness awareness, and emotion regulation. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION INFORMATION Early Intervention for Youth at Risk for Bipolar Disorder; https://clinicaltrials.gov/; NCT01483391.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Amy S. Garrett
- University of Texas, Health Science Center at San Antonio
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Weintraub MJ, Schneck CD, Walshaw PD, Chang KD, Sullivan AE, Singh MK, Miklowitz DJ. Longitudinal trajectories of mood symptoms and global functioning in youth at high risk for bipolar disorder. J Affect Disord 2020; 277:394-401. [PMID: 32861841 PMCID: PMC7572604 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2020.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 08/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about the longitudinal course of mood symptoms and functioning in youth who are at high risk for bipolar disorder (BD). Identifying distinct course trajectories and predictors of those trajectories may help refine treatment approaches. METHODS This study examined the longitudinal course of mood symptoms and functioning ratings in 126 youth at high risk for BD based on family history and early mood symptoms. Participants were enrolled in a randomized trial of family-focused therapy and followed longitudinally (mean 2.0 years, SD = 53.6 weeks). RESULTS Using latent class growth analyses (LCGA), we observed three mood trajectories. All youth started the study with active mood symptoms. Following the index mood episode, participants were classified as having a "significantly improving course" (n = 41, 32.5% of sample), a "moderately symptomatic course" (n = 21, 16.7%), or a "predominantly symptomatic course" (n = 64, 50.8%) at follow-up. More severe depression, anxiety, and suicidality at the study's baseline were associated with a poorer course of illness. LCGA also revealed three trajectories of global functioning that closely corresponded to symptom trajectories; however, fewer youth exhibited functional recovery than exhibited symptomatic recovery. LIMITATIONS Mood trajectories were assessed within the context of a treatment trial. Ratings of mood and functioning were based on retrospective recall. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests considerable heterogeneity in the course trajectories of youth at high risk for BD, with a significant proportion (32.5%) showing long-term remission of symptoms. Treatments that enhance psychosocial functioning may be just as important as those that ameliorate symptoms in youth at risk for BD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc J. Weintraub
- Semel Institute of Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Patricia D. Walshaw
- Semel Institute of Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Aimee E. Sullivan
- School of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | | | - David J. Miklowitz
- Semel Institute of Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Effects of family-focused therapy on suicidal ideation and behavior in youth at high risk for bipolar disorder. J Affect Disord 2020; 275:14-22. [PMID: 32658817 PMCID: PMC7395856 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2020.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Revised: 05/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Youth who are at clinical and familial risk for bipolar disorder (BD) often have significant suicidal ideation (SI). In a randomized trial, we examined whether family-focused therapy (FFT) is associated with reductions in SI and suicidal behaviors in high-risk youth. METHODS Participants (ages 9-17 years) met diagnostic criteria for unspecified BD or major depressive disorder with active mood symptoms and had at least one relative with BD type I or II. Participants were randomly allocated to 12 sessions in 4 months of FFT or 6 sessions in 4 months of psychoeducation (enhanced care, EC), with pharmacotherapy as needed. Clinician- and child-rated assessments of mood, suicidal thoughts and behaviors, and family conflict were obtained at baseline and 4-6 month intervals over 1-4 years. RESULTS Participants (N=127; mean 13.2±2.6 yrs., 82 female) were followed over an average of 105.9±64.0 weeks. Youth with high baseline levels of SI who received FFT had lower levels of (and fewer weeks with) SI at follow-up compared to youth with high baseline SI who received EC. Participants in FFT had longer intervals without suicidal behaviors than participants in EC. Youths' ratings of family conflict significantly mediated the effects of treatment on SI at follow-up. LIMITATIONS Family conflict was based on questionnaires rather than observer ratings of family interactions. CONCLUSIONS Family psychoeducation with skill training can be an effective deterrent to suicidal thoughts and behaviors in youth at high risk for BD. Reducing parent/offspring conflict should be a central objective of psychosocial interventions for high-risk youth with SI.
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Pfennig A, Leopold K, Martini J, Boehme A, Lambert M, Stamm T, Bermpohl F, Reif A, Kittel-Schneider S, Juckel G, Fallgatter AJ, Kircher T, Jansen A, Pfeiffer S, Berndt C, Rottmann-Wolf M, Sauer C, Ritter P, Correll CU, Bechdolf A, Falkenberg I, Bauer M. Improving early recognition and intervention in people at increased risk for the development of bipolar disorder: study protocol of a prospective-longitudinal, naturalistic cohort study (Early-BipoLife). Int J Bipolar Disord 2020; 8:22. [PMID: 32607662 PMCID: PMC7326843 DOI: 10.1186/s40345-020-00183-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 03/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Bipolar disorders (BD) belong to the most severe mental disorders, characterized by an early onset and recurrent, severe episodes or a chronic course with poor psychosocial functioning in a proportion of patients. Many patients with BD experience substantial symptomatology months or even years before full BD manifestation. Adequate diagnosis and treatment is often delayed, which is associated with a worse outcome. This study aims to prospectively evaluate and improve early recognition and intervention strategies for persons at-risk for BD. Methods Early-BipoLife is a prospective-longitudinal cohort study of 1419 participants (aged 15–35 years) with at least five waves of assessment over a period of at least 2 years (baseline, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months). A research consortium of ten university and teaching hospitals across Germany conducts this study. The following risk groups (RGs) were recruited: RG I: help-seeking youth and young adults consulting early recognition centres/facilities presenting ≥ 1 of the proposed risk factors for BD, RG II: in-/outpatients with unipolar depressive syndrome, and RG III: in-/outpatients with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The reference cohort was selected from the German representative IMAGEN cohort. Over the study period, the natural course of risk and resilience factors, early symptoms of BD and changes of symptom severity (including conversion to manifest BD) are observed. Psychometric properties of recently developed, structured instruments on potential risk factors for conversion to BD and subsyndromal symptomatology (Bipolar Prodrome Symptom Scale, Bipolar at-risk criteria, EPIbipolar) and biomarkers that potentially improve prediction are investigated. Moreover, actual treatment recommendations are monitored in the participating specialized services and compared to recently postulated clinical categorization and treatment guidance in the field of early BD. Discussion Findings from this study will contribute to an improved knowledge about the natural course of BD, from the onset of first noticeable symptoms (precursors) to fully developed BD, and about mechanisms of conversion from subthreshold to manifest BD. Moreover, these generated data will provide information for the development of evidence-based guidelines for early-targeted detection and preventive intervention for people at risk for BD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Pfennig
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Carl Gustav Carus University Hospital, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstraße 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany.
| | - Karolina Leopold
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Vivantes Klinikum Am Urban, Berlin, Germany
| | - Julia Martini
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Carl Gustav Carus University Hospital, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstraße 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Anne Boehme
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Carl Gustav Carus University Hospital, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstraße 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Martin Lambert
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Stamm
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic, Medical School Brandenburg, Neuruppin, Germany
| | - Felix Bermpohl
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas Reif
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Sarah Kittel-Schneider
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Georg Juckel
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, LWL-University Hospital Bochum, Ruhr-University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Andreas J Fallgatter
- Department of General Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Tilo Kircher
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Jansen
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Steffi Pfeiffer
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Carl Gustav Carus University Hospital, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstraße 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Christina Berndt
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Carl Gustav Carus University Hospital, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstraße 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Maren Rottmann-Wolf
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Carl Gustav Carus University Hospital, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstraße 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Cathrin Sauer
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Carl Gustav Carus University Hospital, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstraße 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Philipp Ritter
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Carl Gustav Carus University Hospital, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstraße 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Christoph U Correll
- The Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, The Zucker Hillside Hospital, Glen Oaks, NY, USA.,Department of Child- and Adolescent Psychiatry, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas Bechdolf
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, Vivantes Klinikum Am Urban, Berlin, Germany
| | - Irina Falkenberg
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Michael Bauer
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Carl Gustav Carus University Hospital, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstraße 74, 01307, Dresden, Germany
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Miklowitz DJ, Schneck CD, Walshaw PD, Singh MK, Sullivan AE, Suddath RL, Forgey Borlik M, Sugar CA, Chang KD. Effects of Family-Focused Therapy vs Enhanced Usual Care for Symptomatic Youths at High Risk for Bipolar Disorder: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Psychiatry 2020; 77:455-463. [PMID: 31940011 PMCID: PMC6990706 DOI: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2019.4520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Behavioral high-risk phenotypes predict the onset of bipolar disorder among youths who have parents with bipolar disorder. Few studies have examined whether early intervention delays new mood episodes in high-risk youths. OBJECTIVE To determine whether family-focused therapy (FFT) for high-risk youths is more effective than standard psychoeducation in hastening recovery and delaying emergence of mood episodes during the 1 to 4 years after an active period of mood symptoms. DESIGN, SETTINGS, AND PARTICIPANTS This multisite randomized clinical trial included referred youths (aged 9-17 years) with major depressive disorder or unspecified (subthreshold) bipolar disorder, active mood symptoms, and at least 1 first- or second-degree relative with bipolar disorder I or II. Recruitment started from October 6, 2011, and ended on September 15, 2016. Independent evaluators interviewed participants every 4 to 6 months to measure symptoms for up to 4 years. Data analysis was performed from March 13 to November 3, 2019. INTERVENTIONS High-risk youths and parents were randomly allocated to FFT (12 sessions in 4 months of psychoeducation, communication training, and problem-solving skills training; n = 61) or enhanced care (6 sessions in 4 months of family and individual psychoeducation; n = 66). Youths could receive medication management in either condition. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The coprimary outcomes, derived using weekly psychiatric status ratings, were time to recovery from prerandomization symptoms and time to a prospectively observed mood (depressive, manic, or hypomanic) episode after recovery. Secondary outcomes were time to conversion to bipolar disorder I or II and longitudinal symptom trajectories. RESULTS All 127 participants (82 [64.6%] female; mean [SD] age, 13.2 [2.6] years) were followed up for a median of 98 weeks (range, 0-255 weeks). No differences were detected between treatments in time to recovery from pretreatment symptoms. High-risk youths in the FFT group had longer intervals from recovery to the emergence of the next mood episode (χ2 = 5.44; P = .02; hazard ratio, 0.55; 95% CI, 0.48-0.92;), and from randomization to the next mood episode (χ2 = 4.44; P = .03; hazard ratio, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.35-0.97) than youths in enhanced care. Specifically, FFT was associated with longer intervals to depressive episodes (log-rank χ2 = 6.24; P = .01; hazard ratio, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.31-0.88) but did not differ from enhanced care in time to manic or hypomanic episodes, conversions to bipolar disorder, or symptom trajectories. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Family skills-training for youths at high risk for bipolar disorder is associated with longer times between mood episodes. Clarifying the relationship between changes in family functioning and changes in the course of high-risk syndromes merits future investigation. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01483391.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J. Miklowitz
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles
| | | | - Patricia D. Walshaw
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles
| | - Manpreet K. Singh
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Aimee E. Sullivan
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Denver
| | - Robert L. Suddath
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles
| | - Marcy Forgey Borlik
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles
| | - Catherine A. Sugar
- Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles,Department of Biostatistics, Fielding School of Public Health, UCLA, Los Angeles
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Angal S, DelBello M, Zalpuri I, Singh MK. Clinical Conundrum: How do you treat youth with depression and a family history of bipolar disorder? Bipolar Disord 2019; 21:383-386. [PMID: 31025454 PMCID: PMC6597299 DOI: 10.1111/bdi.12788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarthak Angal
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | | | - Isheeta Zalpuri
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
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13
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Miklowitz DJ, Schneck CD, Walshaw PD, Garrett AS, Singh MK, Sugar CA, Chang KD. Early intervention for youth at high risk for bipolar disorder: A multisite randomized trial of family-focused treatment. Early Interv Psychiatry 2019; 13:208-216. [PMID: 28776930 PMCID: PMC5797511 DOI: 10.1111/eip.12463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2017] [Revised: 05/24/2017] [Accepted: 06/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Despite the considerable public health impact of bipolar disorder (BD), no psychosocial interventions have been systematically evaluated in its early prodromal stages. We describe the rationale, design and analytic methods for a 3-site randomized trial of family-focused treatment for youth at high risk (FFT-HR) for BD. METHODS Participants (ages 9-17 years) have a diagnosis of unspecified BD or major depressive disorder, current mood symptoms and at least one first- or second-degree relative with a lifetime history of BD I or II. Participants are randomly assigned to FFT-HR (12 sessions in 4 months of family psychoeducation and skills training) or enhanced care (EC; 6 individual and family sessions over 4 months), with pharmacotherapy provided as needed. A subset of participants undergo pre- and post-treatment functional MRI (fMRI) scans while performing face-rating and family problem-solving tasks designed to activate corticolimbic circuitry. Independent evaluators assess participants' status every 4 to 6 months for up to 4 years. RESULTS We hypothesize that FFT-HR will be more effective than EC in reducing the severity of mood symptoms (primary outcome) and the hazard of a first manic episode (secondary) over 4 years. Secondarily, we will explore whether FFT-HR is associated with greater decreases in amygdala activation and increases in dorsolateral, ventrolateral or anterior medial prefrontal cortex activation from pre- to post-treatment. Clinical characteristics of 133 subjects enrolled at baseline are described. CONCLUSIONS This study will test a novel intervention to reduce the early symptoms of BD, and identify neural and behavioural mechanisms that may help refine future treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Miklowitz
- Los Angeles (UCLA) Semel Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Christopher D Schneck
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Patricia D Walshaw
- Los Angeles (UCLA) Semel Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California
| | - Amy S Garrett
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Manpreet K Singh
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Catherine A Sugar
- Los Angeles (UCLA) Semel Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California.,Department of Biostatistics, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, California
| | - Kiki D Chang
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
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Sub-threshold bipolar disorder in medication-free young subjects with major depression: Clinical characteristics and antidepressant treatment response. J Psychiatr Res 2019; 110:1-8. [PMID: 30579045 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2018.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2018] [Revised: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study, for the first time, compared illness and antidepressant response characteristics of young subjects with major depression (MDD) at low (LRMDD) or high-risk (HRMDD) for developing bipolar disorder with characteristics of young bipolar (BPD) subjects and healthy controls (HC). METHODS One hundred and six young (15-30 yr), medication-free subjects MDD subjects (HRMDD, N = 51; LRMDD, N = 55) were compared with 32 BPD (Type I: 14; Type II: 18) as well as 49 HC subjects. Baseline illness characteristics and frequency of comorbid conditions were examined using Analysis of Variance and Cochran-Armitage trend test. Additionally, in MDD subjects, the effect of open-label antidepressant treatment for up to 24 months with periodic assessments was compared between HRMDD and LRMDD groups for treatment response, remission and (hypo)mania switch while controlling for attrition. RESULTS Significant gradation from LRMDD to HRMDD to BPD groups was found for increasing occurrence of alcohol dependence (p = 0.006), comorbid PTSD (p = 0.006), borderline personality traits (p = 0.001), and occurrence of melancholic features (p < 0.005). Antidepressant treatment response was similar between the two groups except that for the 12-month period HRMDD showed a trend for a lower response. Switch to (hypo)mania was infrequent in both groups though the HRMDD showed a higher occurrence of spikes in (hypo)mania symptoms (>25% increase in YMRS scores)(p = 0.04). CONCLUSION Findings of the study indicate that a substantial proportion of young MDD subjects share BPD illness characteristics. These HRMDD subjects, if treated with antidepressants, need to be monitored for development of BPD. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT01811147.
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Conroy S, Francis M, Hulvershorn LA. Identifying and treating the prodromal phases of bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 5:113-128. [PMID: 30364516 DOI: 10.1007/s40501-018-0138-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of review The goal of this paper is to review recent research on the identification and treatment of prodromal periods that precede bipolar and psychotic disorders. We also sought to provide information about current best clinical practices for prodromal youth. Recent findings Research in the areas of identifying prodromal periods has rapidly advanced. Calculators that can predict risk are now available for use during both bipolar and psychotic disorder prodromes. Cognitive behavior therapies have emerged as the gold standard psychosocial interventions for the psychosis prodrome, while several other types of therapies hold promise for treatment during the bipolar prodrome. Due to safety and efficacy concerns, pharmacologic treatments are not currently recommended during either prodromal period. Summary While additional research is needed to develop useful clinical tools to screen and diagnose during prodromal phases, existing literature has identified constellations of symptoms that can be reliably identified in research settings. Specialized psychotherapies are currently recommended to treat prodromal symptoms in clinical settings. They may also be useful to curtail future episodes, although further research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Conroy
- Department of Psychiatry, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Michael Francis
- Department of Psychiatry, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Leslie A Hulvershorn
- Department of Psychiatry, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
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Zalpuri I, Singh MK. Treatment of psychiatric symptoms among offspring of parents with bipolar disorder. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 4:341-356. [PMID: 29503793 DOI: 10.1007/s40501-017-0126-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review Bipolar disorder is highly familial and has a protracted and diagnostically confusing prodrome. This review critically evaluates recently published literature relevant to the treatment of psychiatric symptoms in high-risk offspring of parents with Bipolar Disorder. Recent Findings Non-pharmacological treatment options including psychotherapy, resilience promotion through good sleep, diet, and exercise hygiene, and omega-3 fatty acid supplementation are important first line interventions for high-risk offspring. There has been some success in treating this population with open-label trials with mood stabilizers and atypical antipsychotics; however, these results have not been replicated in randomized controlled trails. Summary Despite some progress in early identification of symptoms in offspring of parents with Bipolar Disorder, there is scarce evidence supporting the treatment of these high-risk youth to prevent psychiatric symptoms from progressing to threshold bipolar or other psychiatric disorders. There is a need for prospective and randomized trials and research that identifies reliable biomarkers to individualize treatments for these youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isheeta Zalpuri
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
| | - Manpreet K Singh
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA
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