Research from The Ohio State University suggests that a blood test could significantly improve the diagnosis and treatment of bipolar disorder in children. The study identified that children with bipolar disorder exhibited 36% higher levels of a vitamin D-binding protein compared to their peers without mood disorders. This finding could address the typical 10-year delay in diagnosis following onset, as early and accurate identification of the disorder is crucial for effective treatment and reducing the risk of suicide. The study involved 36 participants, including children diagnosed with bipolar and major depressive disorders, and those without mood disorders. While the research highlights the potential utility of the vitamin D-binding protein as a biomarker, further studies are necessary to confirm its diagnostic value. Lead author Ouliana Ziouzenkova emphasizes the importance of identifying factors at the cellular level that can be easily tested in blood. Current efforts are focused on seeking support for more extensive studies. With the right validation, developing a blood test for bipolar disorder could be straightforward and cost-effective, potentially transforming how clinicians approach diagnosis in young patients. The study was supported by the National Institutes of Health and the National Center for Research Resources.
