Study links bipolar disorder in children to tick-borne infections

92% of children with bipolar disorder showed signs of tick-borne infections in a new study.

Why it matters

  • Suggests a potential link between bipolar disorder in children and tick-borne infections.

By the numbers

  • Study included 37 youth with pediatric bipolar disorder.
  • 92% showed signs of tick-borne infections.

The big picture

  • Could imply tick-borne infections play a role in bipolar disorder in children.
  • More research needed to confirm link and understand mechanisms.

What they're saying

  • Study is small and lacks a control group; results should be interpreted with caution.
  • Conducted in a Lyme-endemic area, which might skew results.

Caveats

  • Small sample size (37 participants).
  • No control group.
  • Geographic bias (Lyme-endemic area).

What’s next

  • More research needed with larger sample sizes and control groups.