Aetiology
Brief psychotic disorder (BPD) can be triggered by a markedly stressful event or by childbirth. It can also occur in the absence of stressors.[1] Antenatal exposure to stress increases the risk of postnatal BPD, as does a patient history of psychiatric symptoms. Some people may have a genetic vulnerability to BPD, and BPD occurs more frequently in people with family members who have had BPD.[17]
Pathophysiology
The pathophysiology of brief psychotic disorder (BPD) is unknown.[8] The dysregulation of dopamine is implicated in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia; however, BPD occurs less commonly, thus making it difficult to study. Some data suggest that BPD with postnatal onset is an overt presentation of bipolar disorder, coinciding with the significant hormonal shifts that occur after delivery.[18]
Classification
Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders, 5th edition, Text revision (DSM-5-TR)[1]
With marked stressor(s): The psychotic symptoms develop shortly after, and apparently in response to, 1 or more events that would be considered markedly stressful for any person in similar circumstances in the individual’s culture.
Without marked stressor(s): The psychotic symptoms are not apparently in response to events that would be considered markedly stressful for almost any person in similar circumstances in the individual’s culture.
With postnatal onset: The onset of the psychotic symptoms occurs during pregnancy or within 4 weeks postnatal.
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