Scientists at the University of Cambridge have developed a straightforward blood test that, when coupled with an online psychiatric evaluation, enhances the precision of diagnosing bipolar disorder.
Blood Test Effectiveness
When used in isolation, the blood test could accurately identify 30% of patients with bipolar disorder. However, combining it with a digital mental health assessment significantly improved its efficacy.
Addressing Overlapping Symptoms
Incorporating biomarker testing offers a valuable tool for differentiating between major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder, two conditions with similar symptoms but requiring distinct pharmacological treatments.
Promising Proof of Concept
While the blood test is still in the proof-of-concept stage, a study published in JAMA Psychiatry suggests that it could serve as a valuable complement to existing psychiatric diagnostic methods. Additionally, it may aid researchers in unraveling the biological underpinnings of mental health conditions.
Misdiagnosis Challenge
Bipolar disorder impacts approximately one percent of the global population, amounting to around 80 million individuals. Sadly, nearly 40% of these patients receive an incorrect diagnosis of major depressive disorder.
Seeking Timely and Accurate Diagnosis
Jakub Tomasik, the first author of the study, explained that individuals with bipolar disorder experience alternating periods of low mood and high mood (mania). However, they typically seek medical assistance during low mood phases, leading to frequent misdiagnoses.
The Importance of Accurate Diagnosis
Obtaining an accurate bipolar disorder diagnosis typically involves comprehensive psychiatric assessments, which, while highly effective, come with long waiting times. A simple blood test could offer a quicker, more accessible diagnostic method, ultimately providing patients with appropriate treatment and alleviating the burden on healthcare professionals.
Study Methodology
Researchers utilized data from the Delta study, conducted in the UK between 2018 and 2020, to identify bipolar disorder in patients initially diagnosed with major depressive disorder in the previous five years and currently experiencing depressive symptoms.
Comprehensive Mental Health Assessment
Over 3,000 participants completed an extensive online mental health assessment covering various aspects related to mental health disorders. Topics included past or current depressive episodes, generalized anxiety, mania symptoms, family history, and substance abuse.
Blood Sample Analysis
Around 1,000 participants provided dried blood samples obtained through a simple finger prick. These samples underwent analysis for over 600 different metabolites using mass spectrometry.
Enhanced Diagnostic Outcomes
After participants completed the Composite International Diagnostic Interview, a well-validated diagnostic tool for mood disorders, the study included 241 individuals. Data analysis revealed significant biomarkers associated with bipolar disorder, even when considering factors like medication.
Combining Patient Information and Biomarkers
The study demonstrated that combining patient-reported data with the biomarker test significantly improved diagnostic accuracy for bipolar disorder, particularly in cases where the diagnosis was not straightforward.
Complementary Approaches
Professor Sabine Bahn, who led the research, highlighted the complementary nature of both the online assessment and the biomarker test. While the online assessment was more effective overall, the biomarker test offered a rapid and objective result, which some patients preferred.
