Bipolar Disorder in Late Life

Bipolar Disorder in Late Life (Evaluation of MRI Hyperintensities and DTI in Bipolar Disorder)

The purpose of this study is to look at certain structural changes in the brain in people with bipolar disorder or those with a history of Bipolar disorder.

Individuals with bipolar disorder or those with a history of bipolar disorder may have certain structural changes in their brain. The purpose of this study is to look at those changes, as well as the assessment of risk factors for bipolar disorders, involving both social and psychological aspects of behavior, age, education, marital relations, nutrition, physical activity, etc., compared with persons not having bipolar disorder. These changes in the brain will be measured by Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).

Inclusion Criteria:

1. DSM-IV diagnosis of bipolar Disorder, Manic and mixed episodes.
2. 18 years of age and older, male or female, any race.
3. Capacity to give informed consent and follow study procedures.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. History of alcohol/drug dependence
2. Any metal or pacemaker in the body which precludes MRI
3. Pregnancy
4. Dementia or other primary psychiatric disorders including substance abuse/dependence, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia
5. For controls, numbers one through four above as well as any history of depression or the use of antidepressants