Trauma exposure and post-traumatic stress disorder in bipolar disorder.

INTRODUCTION: There is a lack of data about post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in European bipolar patients compared to the US-population. This study was conducted to ascertain the rates and types of traumatic events and PTSD in bipolar-I disorder.

METHODS: Euthymic bipolar patients were screened for lifetime diagnosis of PTSD using the Post-Traumatic Stress Diagnostic Scale and the Clinician Administered Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Scale.

RESULTS: A total of 74 patients (m = 30, f = 44) with diagnosis of bipolar-I disorder were assessed. 37 patients (50%) reported no trauma, 22 patients (29.7%) experienced traumatic events without diagnosis of PTSD and 15 patients (20.3%) had comorbid PTSD. Bipolar PTSD patients were at higher risk to be exposed to physical violence, parental disregard, alcohol dependence of parents, sexual assault by a family member or acquaintance. The number of siblings was higher and they had higher scores on the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and the Global Assessment of Functioning Scale.

CONCLUSIONS: Bipolar patients are more likely to experience traumatic events and PTSD is a relevant comorbid disorder. PTSD is associated with an increased illness severity of bipolar disorder.