Detection of bipolar disorder in the prodromal phase: A systematic review of assessment instruments

Abstract

Background: Early detection of prodromal symptoms may contribute to improving the prognosis of patients with bipolar disorder (BD). The main objective of this systematic review is to present the different procedures for the identification of initial and relapse prodromes in these patients. Methods: PsycINFO, Web of Science and PubMed databases were searched using a predetermined strategy, until January 4, 2022. Then, by means of a regulated process, studies that used a BD prodrome detection procedure, in English-language and all ages participants were selected. Quantitative and qualitative studies were assessed using a modified version of the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and by Critical Appraisals Skills Programme checklist, respectively. Results: Forty-five studies were selected. Of these, 26 used procedures for identifying initial prodromes (n = 8014) and 19 used procedures for detecting relapse prodromes (n = 1136). The interview was the most used method in the detection of both types of prodromes (k = 30 papers, n = 4068). It was variable in its degree of structure. Mobile applications and digital technologies are gaining importance in the detection of the relapse prodromes. Limitations: A retrospective design in most papers, small samples sizes, existence of persistent subsyndromal symptoms and difficulty to identify the end of the prodrome and the onset of the disorder. Conclusions: There is a wide variety of assessment instruments to detect prodromes in BD, among which the clinical interview is most frequently used. Future research should consider development of a brief tool to be applied in different formats to patients and family members.