Bipolar NOS

Bipolar disorder NOS (Not Otherwise Specified) is a diagnosis for bipolar disorder (BD) when it does not fall within the other established sub-types^[1] Sub-types of bipolar are part of the bipolar spectrum. Bipolar NOS is described as drastic changes in mood, it is considered a mood disorder.This disorder usually occurs during early adulthood but may have symptoms during childhood. Bipolar NOS occurs in roughly 2.4% of those who have Bipolar Disorder.^[2] Bipolar NOS is listed in the DSM-IV and DSM-IV-TR as diagnostic code 296.8.^[3] It is estimated to affect 2.4% of the population, more than bipolar I and bipolar II combined.^[4]

Bipolar Disorder, Nos can be used as a precautionary diagnosis when an individual shows various symptoms of Bipolar disorder. A physician will document these behaviors simply to keep records to use comparatively if the condition worsens. ^[5]

Nomenclature

Bipolar disorder is sometimes referred to as manic depression, though the former term is now more common. ^[6] Bipolar disorder NOS is sometimes referred to as subthreshold bipolar disorder. ^[7]

See also

National Institute of Mental Health: "Bipolar Spectrum Disorder May Be Underrecognized and Improperly Treated"

References