Bipolar Affective Disorder in a Patient of Profound Deafness

J Coll Physicians Surg Pak. 2018 Mar;28(3):S63-S65. doi: 10.29271/jcpsp.2018.03.S63.

Abstract

Profound deafness is a lifelong impairment, leading to the physical disability as well as poor psychological adjustment. We herein present a mental health disorder rarely seen among the patients of profound deafness. A 16-year deaf and dumb girl, previously treated for depression, presented with unusual laughter, irritability, flight of ideas, decreased sleep, ideas of self importance, and decreased social functioning and educational performance. These problems were understood by the parents via sign language, who interpreted them to the interviewer. Her Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) score was 19 and Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS) score was 52. She was diagnosed as a case of bipolar affective disorder (BPAD). Marked improvement in the symptoms and social and educational performance was noted after two weeks of the treatment with sodium valproate, resperidone and clonazepam. Treatment options were explained to the patient with risks and benefits, and she was involved in the decision-making. This case report highlights the importance of accurately diagnosing and managing a rare mental health disorder among the physically handicapped people, especially those who cannot communicate effectively and explain their unusual subjective experiences.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Bipolar Disorder / diagnosis*
  • Bipolar Disorder / drug therapy
  • Clonazepam / therapeutic use
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Persons With Hearing Impairments
  • Psychiatric Status Rating Scales
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Valproic Acid / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Clonazepam
  • Valproic Acid