Bipolar Disorder after Traumatic Brain Injury: Ethiopian Perspective
Introduction: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can result in a variety of neuropsychiatric disturbances and may cause vulnerability to psychiatric disorders, with latency periods of over 10 years. We report the case of a 26 year old man with no psychiatric antecedents who developed manic and aggressive behavior after traumatic brain injury (TBI) Methods and Results: Findings on psychiatric evaluation encompassing detailed history and mental state examination, neuropsychological test battery, baseline laboratory examination and imaging exams suggested the presence of Bipolar I Disorder; Current manic Episode, Severe, with psychotic features due to TBI. Conclusions: This case demonstrates that TBI may cause vulnerability to psychiatric disorders, with long latency periods, and that its course may be exacerbated with existing psychosocial stressor. Evidences suggest valproate as the primary pharmacological intervention in conjunction with cognitive and physical rehabilitation, and family and personal support.