Impulsivity as a Clinical Marker for Bipolar Affective Disorder

Abstract Background Bipolar disorder is one of the world’s 10 most disabling conditions, taking away years of healthy functioning from individuals, all bipolar disorders are chronically recurring illnesses associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. Impulsivity considered an integral part of bipolar disorder. Operationalized as a predisposition to action without reflection or regard for consequences. Potential consequences of this increased impulsivity include substance abuse, suicidal attempts, and other serious behavioral problems. Aim of the Study The aim of the current study was to measure impulsivity in both BD euthymic patients and in healthy first-degree relatives of BD patients. And to assess the functional implications of impulsiveness, on psychosocial functioning and in bipolar disorder patients, their first-degree relatives. Patients and Methods A convenient sample of 50 patients; diagnosed with bipolar affective disorder according to DSM-IV diagnostic criteria were selected from the general adult psychiatry clinics and a convenient sample of 50 healthy first degree relatives of BD patients. Results We concluded by the end of this study that both cases and relatives have high overall impulsivity, and cases have higher impulsivity in comparison to relatives. Conclusion We suggest that impulsivity may be a potentially valuable candidate endophenotype for bipolar disorder.