title: A new bipolar spectrum concept: a brief review.
abstract: Research on the broad bipolar spectrum is dependent on the definition of hypomania. We recently proposed a new, softer syndromal definition with clinical validity. This broadens the diagnosis of bipolar II (BP-II) disorder at the expense of major depressive disorder (MDD). There is evidence for a third group of suspected BP-II manifesting major depression plus hypomanic symptoms. The two bipolar-II groups together are as prevalent as MDD. A new concept of minor bipolar disorder embracing dysthymia, minor and recurrent brief depression with hypomanic syndromes and symptoms is discussed. Some methodological pitfalls of research on drug-induced hypomania as an element of the bipolar spectrum are also summarized.
authors.affiliation: Zurich University Psychiatric Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland.
authors.forename: Jules
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Angst
authors.forename: Alex
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Gamma
mesh_terms: D001714:Bipolar Disorder / Q000145:classification / Q000175:diagnosis*; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000523:psychology; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D013997:Time Factors