Misdiagnosed Patients With Bipolar Disorder

Abstract

Misdiagnosed bipolar patients received inappropriate and costly treatment regimens involving overuse of antidepressants and underuse of potentially effective medications. Patterns of psychiatric comorbidity suggest one possible strategy for improving recognition of bipolar disorder among patients presenting with depressive symptoms. Patients who present with the observed pattern of comorbidities may benefit from additional screening for bipolar disorder. It is recommended that steps be taken to minimize misdiagnosis in clinical settings.