Cognitive Dysfunction in Bipolar Disorder

Book excerpt: A growing body of clinical and experimental evidence shows that neurocognitive dysfunction is a fundamental -- yet frequently ignored or misidentified -- component of bipolar disorder. The first comprehensive book of its kind, Cognitive Dysfunction in Bipolar Disorder: A Guide for Clinicians compiles the latest data in neuropsychology, neuroimaging, neurogenetics, and functional outcomes research to enable clinicians to more effectively utilize pharmacological and psychotherapeutic techniques in their treatment of bipolar disorder. This volume outlines and demystifies current knowledge about neuropsychological functioning in bipolar disorder in a reader-friendly, easy-to-understand guide for practitioners. Its 12 chapters, written by 23 internationally-renowned expert contributors, examine such topics as attentional and executive functioning, neuroimaging and genetic correlates of cognitive functioning, pharmacological strategies, bipolar disorder in pediatric patients, and cognition across the life span. The book also comes with the added benefit of A review of neurocognitive domains, examples of their operation in everyday life, the neuroanatomical regions with which they are associated, and common tests used to assess their function Summarized data from large-scale clinical trials, including the National Institute of Mental Health Antipsychotic Trials of Intervention Effectiveness (CATIE) study Take-home points at the end of each chapter summarizing main concepts and "clinical pearls" Case studies and illustrative examples depicting the application of specific neurocognitive principles Using relevant applications from cognitive neuroscience, Cognitive Dysfunction in Bipolar Disorder provides clinicians with a comprehensive overview of astounding breakthroughs in the assessment and treatment of patients with bipolar disorder. It plows new ground in the mental health industry, correcting distortions and laying the foundation for future clinical research in this rapidly expanding field.