Bipolar Affective Disorder. Clinical Aspects and Comorbidity

The review of the literature describes the clinical features of bipolar affective disorder (BAD). Difficulties in diagnosing BAD due to the complex clinical picture that cause untimely diagnosis and the formation of an unfavorable course of the disease are examined in detail. The data on mental disorders it is necessary to differentiate BAD from are presented. The characteristics of the course of BAD are described in detail, including unfavorable forms and mixed bipolar conditions, which are difficult to diagnose and treat, and present a negative prognostic factor. The data on the deterioration of the cognitive abilities of patients with an increase in the number of episodes of BAD, which can occur even during euthymy, are considered. Particular attention is paid to the consideration of forms of mental and somatic pathology, comorbid BAD associated with a decrease in the quality of life, poor prognosis, increased disability, and premature mortality.