Psychiatric comorbid conditions in a clinic population of 241 patients with tuberous sclerosis complex

Psychiatric symptoms were retrospectively assessed in a clinic population of 241 children and adults with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). Sixty-six (27%) patients had a history of mood disorder symptoms, 66 (27%) had a history of anxiety disorder symptoms, 73 (30%) had a history of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms, and 68 (28%) had a history of aggressive/disruptive behavior disorder symptoms. Significant relationships were found between these symptoms and patient age, gender, genetic mutation, seizure history, surgical history, cognitive impairment, features of autism or pervasive developmental disorder, and neurological manifestations of TSC. In 43 patients seen by at least one of two affiliated psychiatrists, the most common formal diagnoses were anxiety disorders (28%), mood disorders (26%), adjustment disorders (21%), ADHD (21%), and mental disorders not otherwise specified due to general medical condition (42%). Citalopram demonstrated efficacy in treating anxiety and depression, and risperidone, in treating problematic behaviors.