Berk et al reported a clinical staging system for bipolar disorders. This is based on stages reported by McGorry et al. The authors are from Geelong Clinic, University of Melbourne, University of Lausanne, Royal North Shore Hospital, University of Sydney and University of British Columbia.
Stage
Features
0
asymptomatic but at increased risk
1a
mild or non-specific symptoms of a mood disorder
1b
prodromal findings
2
first episode of mood disorder (threshold illness)
3a
recurrence with subthreshold mood symptoms
3b
first relapse with threshold illness
3c
multiple relapses with cycles of recurrence and remission
4
unremitting, treatment refractory
Interventions can be made that are appropriate to the stage. The hope is that intervention at an early stage can avoid more severe illness later.
To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.
