A Collaborative Treatment Network for Youth With or at High Risk for Bipolar Disorder

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying youth aged 9 to 19 years who have bipolar spectrum disorders (BSDs), including Bipolar I, Bipolar II, Cyclothymic Disorder, and Other Specified Bipolar Disorder. The study aims to accurately diagnose these conditions and identify factors such as mood instability and inflammatory markers that may predict clinical outcomes over a 12-month period. This research is conducted across four specialized US sites within The Childhood Bipolar Network (CBN), focusing on improving pediatric BSD diagnosis and treatment. Participants will undergo initial screening including a structured diagnostic interview and a baseline blood test to measure inflammation. Over the year, youth and their parents will participate in multiple follow-up visits involving interviews, rating scales, and questionnaires. Study psychiatrists will provide medication management guided by expert-developed protocols, while psychosocial treatments may also be offered based on clinical judgment and availability, but are not standardized across sites. During the study, youth will be regularly assessed using various psychiatric and behavioral rating scales at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months, including mood and quality of life measures. Parents will complete weekly online reports on their child's symptoms through the year. The study tracks medication use and psychosocial interventions while aiming to develop standardized clinical tools and treatment approaches for youth with BSD. Participation involves ongoing interviews, assessments, and monitoring over a full year.

Children's Bipolar Network Treatment Trial I