In France, 1.2% of the population would suffer from bipolar disorders. This disease (also called “manic-depressive psychosis”) appears mainly in early adulthood – between 18 and 24 years – in men as much as in women, but rather in urban areas.
This is a pathology that evolves in phases: during the so-called “manic” phase, the person suffering from bipolar disorder is hyperactive, euphoric: they make plans, lose all their inhibitions. But during the so-called “depressive” phase, we observe the opposite phenomenon: the person is depressed, has no taste for anything, feels apathetic. Between these two extremes, the person enjoys a short respite: the euthymic phase, a normal state.*
According to a new study from University College London (in England), it will soon be possible to prevent bipolar disorder from the age of 9 thanks to a simple blood test. To reach this conclusion, the researchers worked with a panel of 1700 volunteers, whom they followed from their pre-adolescence (8-9 years) until adulthood.
Earlier diagnosis = better treatment
Results ? Scientists have discovered that at the age of 9, an abnormally high blood concentration of a molecule called IL-6 can announce bipolar disorders in adulthood. This molecule, secreted by white blood cellsis normally involved in the body’s immune response to infections.
However, previous studies had already shown that IL-6 also had an impact on the brain, and in particular on a cerebral area called the “anterior cingulate cortex”: it would thus be involved in anxiety, memory problemssleep and self-esteem issues…
“This work could allow an earlier diagnosis of bipolar disorders, which would allow more effective care,” say the researchers, who published their work in the specialized journal Psychological Medicine. “Furthermore, new treatments specifically targeting IL-6 could be developed. »
Source : http://www.troubles-bipolar.com/
