North Carolina Neurological Foundation (NCNF)

Mood Disorder Due To Another Medical Condition

Mood disorder due to another medical condition refers to depressive or manic syndromes directly attributable to a general medical condition, such as endocrine disorders, neurological diseases, or metabolic disturbances. Etiology depends on the underlying medical condition affecting neurochemical pathways and brain function. Clinical features mirror major depressive or bipolar disorders but are temporally linked to the medical illness. Diagnosis requires establishing a causal relationship, temporal correlation, and exclusion of primary psychiatric disorders. Management involves treating the underlying medical condition, adjunctive pharmacotherapy for mood symptoms, and supportive psychotherapy.