Bipolar disorder: The Daily PANCE Blueprint
A 36-year-old male presents to the clinic due to new behavioral changes. For the past two weeks, he has had insomnia, increased activity, grandiose thinking, and impulsive behavior. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?
A. Schizophrenia
B. Bipolar disorder
C. Borderline personality disorder
D. Generalized anxiety disorder
E. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Answer and topic summary
The answer is B. Bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder is characterized by the symptoms DIGFAST: distractibility, irritability, grandiosity, flight of ideas, activity increased, sleep deficits, and talkativeness. There are two types of bipolar disorders (I and II), and the DSM IV has specific diagnostic criteria for each type. Risk factors include family history and higher socioeconomic status. Lithium is one of the first-line treatments for bipolar disorder. It has many commonly asked-about side effects that you should remember, such as hypothyroidism, hyperparathyroidism, nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, cognitive fog, and tremors. About 50% of people with bipolar disorder also have a substance abuse disorder. They also commonly have financial and legal issues. 25-50% will attempt suicide.
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Smarty PANCE Content Blueprint Review:
Covered under ⇒ PANCE Blueprint Psychiatry ⇒
Also covered as part of the Emergency Medicine EOR, Psychiatry EOR, and Family Medicine PAEA EOR topic list
