Atypical Depression is Associated With Suicide Attempt in Bipolar Disorder

The association between suicide attempt & atypical depression, in addition to other major risk factors, was evaluated in 390 bipolar I & II Spanish outpatients. History of suicide attempts was obtained through interviews with patients & relatives. Attempters & non-attempters were compared using univariate & multivariate analysis. Attempters showed significantly higher rates of atypical depression, family history of suicide, depression at index episode, & cluster B personality disorder. Results highlight the relevance of atypical depression in bipolar disorder. A more accurate identification of potential attempters may contribute to the development of effective preventive treatment strategies. (71 refs.) JA