Definition:
Rapid cycling in bipolar disorder means having four or more episodes per year. According to the DSM-IV, the episodes must either be separated by two months without mania or depression or must switch abruptly from one pole to the other.
Because there is some disagreement as to what constitutes rapid cycling, studies have shown anywhere from 13 to 56% of bipolar patients may be rapid cyclers, and some other demographics are similarly confused. Many studies have shown that patients with rapid cycling bipolar disorder are more likely to have a history of sexual abuse and both family and personal history of substance abuse.
See Also:
What is Rapid Cycling?
A Layperson's Description of Rapid Cycling Bipolar Disorder
References:
Kupka, R.W., et al (2005). "Comparison of Rapid-Cycling and Non-Rapid-Cycling Bipolar Disorder Based on Prospective Mood Ratings in 539 Outpatients." Retrieved October 11, 2006 from http://www.ajp.psychiatryonline.org/cgi/content/full/162/7/1273
Mehta, A., and Calabrese, J. (2005). "Rapid Cycling Bipolar Disorder: Update on Phenomenology and Treatment." Retrieved October 11, 2006 from http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/512156
Rapid cycling in bipolar disorder means having four or more episodes per year. According to the DSM-IV, the episodes must either be separated by two months without mania or depression or must switch abruptly from one pole to the other.
Because there is some disagreement as to what constitutes rapid cycling, studies have shown anywhere from 13 to 56% of bipolar patients may be rapid cyclers, and some other demographics are similarly confused. Many studies have shown that patients with rapid cycling bipolar disorder are more likely to have a history of sexual abuse and both family and personal history of substance abuse.
See Also:
What is Rapid Cycling?
A Layperson's Description of Rapid Cycling Bipolar Disorder
References:
Kupka, R.W., et al (2005). "Comparison of Rapid-Cycling and Non-Rapid-Cycling Bipolar Disorder Based on Prospective Mood Ratings in 539 Outpatients." Retrieved October 11, 2006 from http://www.ajp.psychiatryonline.org/cgi/content/full/162/7/1273
Mehta, A., and Calabrese, J. (2005). "Rapid Cycling Bipolar Disorder: Update on Phenomenology and Treatment." Retrieved October 11, 2006 from http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/512156
