Simultaneous Onset of Bipolar Disorder and Epilepsy: Unraveling the Neurobiological Links in a Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Bipolar disorder often presents with alternating episodes of depression and mania or hypomania. It shares similarities with epilepsy, including its episodic nature and response to similar medications. The common underlying neurobiological mechanisms of these conditions and the temporal association in this case raise the question of a possible link between the two conditions. Case Presentation: A 51-year-old woman presented with manic symptoms following an exacerbation of seizure attacks after discontinuing her antiepileptic medications. She experienced generalized tonic-clonic seizures without aura, each lasting 2 - 3 minutes, followed by postictal confusion. During episodic clusters of seizures, lasting 10 - 20 days, she had 1 - 4 seizures daily. Her first seizure and manic episode occurred simultaneously at the age of 20. Manic symptoms, including elevated mood, grandiosity, reduced need for sleep, talkativeness, irritability, and auditory and tactile hallucinations, consistently emerged during seizure exacerbations. Neurological examination was normal, and mood symptoms improved with seizure control. Discussion: The patient's case highlights the close link between epilepsy and bipolar disorder. The overlap in pharmacological treatments, particularly antiepileptic drugs like valproate and carbamazepine, suggests a shared pathophysiology. Potential mechanisms include dysfunction in neurotransmitter systems, such as GABA and purinergic signaling, and structural brain changes. Recent studies suggest that abnormalities in Ankyrin-G isoforms may contribute to the comorbidity. Conclusions: This case demonstrates a temporal association between seizure activity and bipolar symptoms, suggesting that epilepsy may be a contributing factor in the development of bipolar disorder. This could indicate a possible association between the two conditions. Further studies are required to explore the underlying mechanisms and improve therapeutic approaches for comorbid epilepsy and bipolar disorder to help clinicians achieve an exact diagnosis and effective management.