EEG (Electroencephalography) Abnormality in First Episode Mania: Is It Trait or State?

Abstract

The aim of this study is to investigate the frequency of abnormal EEG (electroencephalography) findings in first episode mania and to determine whether EEG abnormality improves at the subsequent remission period. The secondary, to compare cases with or without abnormal EEG findings with regard to clinical characteristics of BD (bipolar disorder). In the present study, 86 consecutive first attack mania cases between the ages of 18-65 diagnosed as BD, manic episode according to DSM-IV who referred to our outpatient clinic or emergency service whose informed consent form was signed by first degree relatives were evaluated. Inclusion criteria were not having previous depressive episode, absence of any neurologic disorder, especially epilepsy, absence of history head trauma, and/or loss of consciousness and were not using any drugs which can influence electroenecepholafraphic activity before EEG (antiepileptic, anxiolytic, antidepressant, and antipsychotics). Diagnostic interviews were made with SCID-I (DSM-IV Structured Clinical Interview) and information on disease was recorded with SKIP-TURK (Mood Disorder Diagnosis and Follow-up Form). EEG recordings were made withdigital EEG device in 16 channels. EEG abnormality is more frequent in mania than remission period (p = 0.022) and occurs at the rate of 28.7%. All cases with continuing abnormal EEG findings in remission period are women.In cases with continuing EEG abnormality, the age of menarche is smaller (p = 0.032) but family history is less frequent (p = 0.008). Childhood trauma and history of suicide attempt is more frequent in cases with abnormal EEG in remission period as well (p < 0.001 and 0.005). Of the cases, whose abnormal EEG improved in remission period, 83.3% were treated with anticonvulsants. In some bipolar cases, abnormal EEG is present from the onset of disease and it is associated with some clinical characteristics. Abnormal EEG returns to normal in half of the cases in remission period.