Are mood and bipolar disorders common in children/adults with Down syndrome?
A comprehensive approach is needed in assessment of a child/adult with Down syndrome presenting with mood instability. It is essential to rule out any underlying medical and neurological conditions, and especially to consider the possibility of adverse effect of medications that may lead to secondary mood instability. A young child with Down syndrome that presents with persistent oppositional, impulsive, disruptive, irritable, and aggressive behaviors should be considered under a possible mood disorder. In our clinical experience the coexistence of true bipolar disorder and Down syndrome is relatively unknown. The use of anticonvulsant medications (as mood stabilizers) need only be considered under careful supervision. Likewise, the use of atypical neuroleptic medications ought to be considered only as a last resort, again, with careful monitoring of their potential side effects. These latter medications tend to be limited in efficacy and should be used sparingly and in low doses. Sinc
