A patient has been diagnosed with cyclothymic disorder.Which assessment data provided by the patient support this diagnosis? (Select all that apply.)

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Cyclothymic disorder is characterized by chronic mood disturbances that are not severe enough to meet the criteria for bipolar disorder or major depressive disorder. The patient's description of periods that suggest hypomanic episodes supports this diagnosis, as cyclothymic disorder involves hypomanic and depressive symptoms. The fact that the patient's symptoms began 4 years ago is also consistent with a diagnosis of cyclothymic disorder, which requires symptoms to be present for at least 2 years. The patient's report of being "moderately depressed" at times is also consistent with cyclothymic disorder, as the disorder involves less severe depressive episodes than major depressive disorder. The fact that the patient has been hospitalized for depression numerous times is not consistent with cyclothymic disorder, as hospitalization is typically not required for this diagnosis. The patient's report of depression worsening in the winter may be consistent with seasonal affective disorder, but is not specific to cyclothymic disorder.

A Patient Has Been Diagnosed with Cyclothymic Disorder