Risk Factors and Chronicity of Bipolar Affective Disorder: Biological and Psychosocial Aspects

The literature review provides the results of epidemiological studies of bipolar affective disorder (BAD). Biological risk factors and adverse course of BAD are considered in detail, including genetic ones (BAD is defined as a genetically determined disorder that has common non-specific genetic risk factors with depressive and schizophrenic spectrum disorders). We address the data on various neurotransmitter systems dysfunctions that may play a role in the pathogenesis of the disease. The results of studies of biological markers in the blood, as well as morphological disorders in brain structures, are analyzed. Stressful situations, that can aggravate manifestations of a genetic and biochemical predisposition, disturbances in emotional and cognitive mental processes, neurocognitive deficiency, and dysfunctional family relationships are considered as psychosocial factors of BAD.