P0123 - Is it pediatric bipolar disorder, ADHD or both?

Abstract

One of the major topics of discussion among psychiatric colleagues as well as the general media is: What is pediatric bipolar disorder (PBPD)? And if it exists, how is it different from an Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)? On the surface these two diagnoses can look quite similar. In both ADHD and PBPD the youngster may exhibit very high degrees of overactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. Both groups of children may have problems falling asleep, temper outbursts, can be highly distractible and exhibit destructive and/or dangerous behavior. In school there may be complaints of restlessness, problems concentrating, and silly intrusive behavior. Adding to the diagnostic confusion is the frequency with which the two disorders co-exist. This presentation will address the following questions:

1. 1. How are these conditions Identified?

2. 2. What's the difference between adult and pediatric bipolar disorder?

3. 3. Why the confusion between BPD and ADHD in childhood?

4. 4. How does one tease out the difference between PBPD and ADHD. (A chart differentiating the PBPD and ADHD will be shown)

5. 5. Prioritizing Treatment- Which disorder do you treat first?

6. 6. Pharmacologic Treatment of co-existing PBPD and ADHD

This talk will be supplemented with an audio-visual presentation of an affected child. (if the necessary equipment is available for use).