The author describes the specific diagnostic entity of manic-depressive
variant syndrome of childhood and outlines the five essential diagnostic
criteria (affective storms, family history of significant affective
dysfunction, hyperactivity, chronically disturbed personal relationships,
and absence of psychotic thought disorder) and the five secondary criteria
(sleep disturbances, minimal brain dysfunction, abnormal EEG, enuresis, and
neuropathology). In the four cases reported, the children, when properly
diagnosed, responded well to lithium therapy. The author points out the
need for further study of this syndrome. Precautions about the use of
lithium in children under age 12 are crucial, as is the need for continuing
psychotherapy for parents and child.
Abstract Teaser