Hemochromatosis-induced bipolar disorder: a case report

Abstract Objective A patient presenting with Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, bipolar disorder was found to be affected by high iron hemochromatosis. This prompted us to explore the relation between bipolar disorder and iron overload. Method We report the case a...

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Published in:General hospital psychiatry 2012, Vol.34 (1), p.101.e1-101.e3
Main Authors: Serata, Daniele, M.D, Del Casale, Antonio, M.D, Rapinesi, Chiara, M.D, Mancinelli, Iginia, M.D, Pompili, Pieritalo, M.D, Kotzalidis, Giorgio D., M.D, Aimati, Laura, Ph.D, Savoja, Valeria, M.D, Sani, Gabriele, M.D, Simmaco, Maurizio, M.D., Ph.D, Tatarelli, Roberto, M.D, Girardi, Paolo, M.D
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Bipolar disorder
Bipolar Disorder - etiology
Bipolar Disorder - physiopathology
Comorbidity
Drug-refractory conditions
Genetics
Hemochromatosis
Hemochromatosis - complications
Hemochromatosis - diagnosis
Hemochromatosis - genetics
Hemochromatosis - therapy
Humans
Italy
Male
Psychiatry
Psycho-organic syndrome
Young Adult
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Summary:Abstract Objective A patient presenting with Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, bipolar disorder was found to be affected by high iron hemochromatosis. This prompted us to explore the relation between bipolar disorder and iron overload. Method We report the case and review the peer-reviewed literature focusing on mood symptoms in patients with hemochromatosis or iron overload. Animal studies of brain effects of iron overload are summarized. High iron hemochromatosis was confirmed by genetic testing, and treatment was instituted to address iron overload. Results Patient's bipolar symptoms completely subsided after phlebotomic reduction of iron overload. Conclusion Clinicians should explore the possibility of iron overload and seek genetic confirmation of hemochromatosis in resistant bipolar disorder to avoid unnecessary medication.
ISSN:0163-8343
1873-7714
DOI:10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2011.04.013