Scientists from the University of Cambridge have developed a blood test that can diagnose bipolar disorder. Research results published In JAMA Psychiatry.
Bipolar affective disorder (BID) is a mental illness characterized by changes in mood phases from mania to depression. Mania is accompanied by increased energy level, euphoria and nervous excitement; Depression is accompanied by apathy, depression and lethargy.
The difficulty in defining bipolar disorder is that patients often seek help during the depressive episode and remain silent about the manic episode. Many psychiatrists mistakenly diagnose them with depression and prescribe the wrong treatment. For example, if a person with bipolar disorder starts taking antidepressants without adding mood stabilizers, this could trigger another manic episode.
Scientists sought to create a tool that could detect BAR with high accuracy. Approximately three thousand people participated in the research. Subjects evaluated their mental state by filling out surveys consisting of more than 600 questions. The researchers then took blood samples from all participants.
Scientists have found that certain blood metabolites (metabolic products produced in organs, tissues, and cells as a result of metabolism) are markers of bipolar disorder. Monitoring these biomarkers through a blood test will enable a quick and accurate diagnosis of bipolar disorder.
Researchers hope the technology will be an additional diagnostic tool for people whose condition is not obvious. Additionally, such a blood test could contribute to the development of new drugs for the treatment of bipolar disorder.
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