Deep transcranial magnetic stimulation for treatment-resistant bipolar depression: a case report of acute and maintenance efficacy

Neurocase. 2013;19(5):451-7. doi: 10.1080/13554794.2012.690429. Epub 2012 Jul 24.

Abstract

Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (dTMS) is currently being evaluated as a possible treatment for several neuropsychiatric disorders and has been demonstrated as a safe and effective procedure. This case presents a patient with bipolar depression that has been treated with 20 daily consecutive dTMS sessions and with one dTMS session every 2 weeks for the following 3 months. Depressive symptoms improved rapidly and response was maintained during the next 6 months; cognitive performances also improved. This report suggests that add-on dTMS may help overcoming drug-resistance in bipolar depression and protect from subsequent bipolar episodes of any polarity.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Bipolar Disorder / therapy*
  • Depression / therapy
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation / methods*
  • Treatment Outcome