Bipolar Affective Disorder, Epilepsy and Migraine – Does Possible Shared Pathogenesis Explain their Association?

Bipolar, epilepsy and migraine disorders are frequently reported as co-morbid conditions. In this review article we highlight some of the similarities between these disorders, exploring at various levels including cellular, structural and phenotypic changes. Clinical observations suggest considerable overlap with a number of common neurobiological features. Nonetheless, the courses of development of each disorder remain to be elucidated such that there is much room for further research into their precise underlying mechanisms. A better understanding of the neurobiology of these disorders will help to improve current treatments, particularly when there is co-morbidity and presence of treatment resistant and complex cases.