2007/10/01 by David J. Muzina, David E. Kemp, Roger S. McIntyre · 1 citation
Medicine · #Bipolar Disorder and Treatment #Treatment of Major Depression #Schizophrenia research and treatment
paper · doi:10.1080/10401230701653591
openalex publication_date 2007/10/01 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/08/04
BACKGROUND: Bipolar disorder is a highly prevalent mood disorder, frequently misdiagnosed as unipolar major depressive disorder. METHODS: In order to summarize the historical and clinical features that may distinguish bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder, a MedLine search was conducted of all English-language articles published between 1996 and 2006 using the key search terms bipolar disorder and manic-depression cross-referenced with major depressive disorder. RESULTS: Better methods for arriving at the correct diagnosis of bipolar disorder include a clinical history that evaluates symptoms beyond narrow DSM-IV criteria and the use of self-reported screening tools. Twenty-six separate features were identified that are believed to aid in the differentiation of bipolar disorder from unipolar major depressive disorder. CONCLUSIONS: It is estimated that as many as 1 in 5 depressed outpatients may have undeclared bipolar disorder. Recognition of bipolar disorder can be improved by increasing the clinical acumen of diagnosticians and through the use of screening tools.