A right-handed 42-year-old man with bipolar II disorder according to the
Research Diagnostic Criteria was tested during two depressive phases, a
hypomanic phase, and after a series of left ECT treatments. While drug free
he was given a set of tasks sensitive to asymmetry in hemispheric
activation. The results indicated hyperactivation of the right hemisphere
during the hypomanic episode and of the left hemisphere during the
depressive episodes. After left ECT, the patient evidenced greater
symmetry. The authors suggest that this case is an instance of reversed
lateralization in the regulation of positive and negative mood states.
Abstract Teaser