V Vicens1, S Sarró, P J McKenna. 1. Benito Menni Complex Assistencial en Salut Mental, Barcelona, Spain. victorvicens@gmail.com
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Although it is accepted that patients with delusional disorder can show co-existing depression, comorbidity with bipolar disorder is not a recognised feature. METHOD: Case report of patients who showed both delusional disorder and mania or hypomania. The patients were examined using lifetime structured psychiatric interview where possible. RESULTS: Four patients are described who met criteria for delusional disorder, with durations ranging from 2 to 15 years, and also experienced one or more episodes of mania or hypomania. LIMITATIONS: Case reports cannot quantify a clinical association. CONCLUSIONS: These cases suggest that there is an association between delusional disorder and affective disorder which goes beyond the occurrence of depressive symptoms in the disorder.
BACKGROUND: Although it is accepted that patients with delusional disorder can show co-existing depression, comorbidity with bipolar disorder is not a recognised feature. METHOD: Case report of patients who showed both delusional disorder and mania or hypomania. The patients were examined using lifetime structured psychiatric interview where possible. RESULTS: Four patients are described who met criteria for delusional disorder, with durations ranging from 2 to 15 years, and also experienced one or more episodes of mania or hypomania. LIMITATIONS: Case reports cannot quantify a clinical association. CONCLUSIONS: These cases suggest that there is an association between delusional disorder and affective disorder which goes beyond the occurrence of depressive symptoms in the disorder.