Overview

The purpose of this NIH (National Institute of Health) funded study is to examine the possible existance of brain abnormalities in the young offspring of people diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder (manic-depression) using magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy (MRI/MRS). The MRI takes pictures of the brain and the MRS simultaneously measures a specific brain chemical called N-Acetyl-Asparate (NAA). Studies have shown that children who have a parent diagnosed with bipolar disorder are four times more likely to develop a mood disorder as compared to the children of healthy parents.

If your child meets initial eligibility criteria a screening visit is scheduled. We will first screen the parent to confirm a diagnosis of Bipolar and then we will screen the child for the presence of a psychiatric diagnosis. Each assessment can last up to 3 hours and involves a structured clinical interview that asks you questions about you and your family's medical and psychiatric history. This will be conducted by a member of our research team. Your child will also give a urine sample to rule out pregnancy and illicit drug use. If your child continues to qualify for the study an MRI/MRS is scheduled at UNC's Biomedical Research Imaging Center. This visit will take approximately 90 minutes. The next component of the study can be completed the same day as the MRI/MRS or at the next visit. Your child will be given several neuropsychological tests to assess their mental functioning. These tests consist of questions and particular exercises (including computer tasks) that will test their ability to concentrate and to learn and deal with new information. This visit can take up to 4 hours.

Eligibility

• For Bipolar parents with children, must have a diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder and at least one child. Your child may participate if he/she is diagnosed with bipolar disorder or any other Axis I Psychiatric Disorder. Your child may particpate if he/she has no psychiatric diagnosis.
• For Healthy Controls, must be between 5 -17 with no previous psychiatric diagnosis for them or any first degree relative (parents, siblings, children).
• Not currently pregnant
• No current major medical problems (i.e. cancer, diabetes, hypertension, heart problems)
• No illegal substances for 6 months
• No metal plates/parts in body (pacemakers, aneurysm clips, screws, etc.)
• No history of epilepsy or loss of consciousness for more than 30 minutes

Study Payment