Mania

Book excerpt: Since the 1990 publication of Goodwin and Jamison's classic text on mania and bipolar and unipolar depression, Manic-Depressive Illness, there have been a number of significant advances in the research, diagnosis, and treatment of mania and bipolar disorder. Developed and written by experts at the forefront of these advances, Mania: Clinical and Research Perspectives provides a comprehensive overview of all recent developments on all aspects of mania. Mania is divided into three sections: diagnostic considerations, biological aspects, and treatment. "Diagnostic Considerations" includes coverage of the diagnostic revisions in DSM-IV, special comorbidity issues in children and substance abuse, the differentiation of mood swing from bipolar disorder, and generational change and genetic linkage. "Biological Aspects" reviews the current state of knowledge in biochemistry and biological techniques such as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and brain imaging. "Treatment" thoroughly surveys all major treatment regimens for mania, including new drug therapies such as carbamazepine, valproate, clozapine, risperidone, verapamil, and nimodipine. This section also details new findings on the use of lithium and the risks for pregnant women and advances in psychotherapy. The book concludes with a summary that provides a historical perspective and directions for further research. With the comprehensive coverage provided in Mania: Clinical and Research Perspectives, readers will be able to improve patient care through advanced diagnosis and treatment.