How Do You Diagnose Pediatric Bipolar Disorder?
Diagnosis of pediatric bipolar disorder is difficult because of its atypical features and its complex pattern of comorbidity combined with disruptive and anxiety disorders (Bierderman, 2003). In sum, atypicality of pediatric bipolar is demonstrated by the predominance of abnormal irritable mood with a natural course that is normally chronic and continuous instead of being episodic and acute (Biederman, 2003). Another problem with diagnosing juvenile bipolar disorder is based on the fact that its symptoms overlap those of attention-deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD) (Tramontina et al, 2003). Given the poorly understood nature of pediatric bipolar disorder and limited agreement on a specific diagnostic measure, it is important to know how to diagnose the condition based on the available research. Identify temperamental risk factors for pediatric psychopathology in order to identify children at risk of pediatric bipolar disorder (Hirshfield-Becker, et al 2003). Temporal risk factors indi
