The proximal prodrome to first episode mania--a new target for early intervention.
OBJECTIVE
Affective psychoses and bipolar disorders have been neglected in the development of early intervention strategies. This paper aims to gather current knowledge on the early phase of bipolar disorders in order to define new targets for early intervention.


METHODS
Literature review based on the main computerized databases (MEDLINE, PUBMED and PSYCHLIT) and hand search of relevant literature.


RESULTS
Based on current knowledge, it is likely that an approach aiming at the identification of impending first-episode mania is the most realistic and manageable strategy to promote earlier treatment. During the period preceding the onset of the first manic episode, patients go through a prodromal phase marked by the presence of mood fluctuation, sleep disturbance, and other symptoms such as irritability, anger, or functional impairment. Additionally, various risk factors and markers of vulnerability to bipolar disorders have been identified.


CONCLUSIONS
In the few months preceding first-episode mania, patients go through a prodrome phase (proximal prodrome) that could become an important target for early intervention. However, considering the low specificity of the symptoms observed during this phase, criteria defining high-risk profiles to first-episode mania should also include certain risk factors or markers of vulnerability. While more research is needed in high-risk groups (e.g., bipolar offspring), retrospective studies conducted in first-episode mania cohorts could provide valuable information about this critical phase of the illness.
Conus
Philippe
P
Treatment and Early Intervention in Psychosis Program (TIPP), Département Universitaire de Psychiatrie CHUV, Lausanne University, Clinique de Cery, Prilly, Switzerland. philippe.conus@chuv.ch
Ward
Janine
J
Hallam
Karen T
KT
Lucas
Nellie
N
Macneil
Craig
C
McGorry
Patrick D
PD
Berk
Michael
M
D018692:Antimanic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D001714:Bipolar Disorder / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000523:psychology; D042241:Early Diagnosis; D006801:Humans; D012307:Risk Factors; D055502:Secondary Prevention
D018692:Antimanic Agents