From cerebellar alterations to mood disorders: A systematic review

Abstract

Background: Several studies have shown cerebellar abnormalities during depressive and manic states, although the specific cerebellar role in mood fluctuations remains poorly defined. Therefore, the study of pathologies characterized by frequent mood swings, such as bipolar disorder, is of great interest to investigate the relationship between the cerebellum and mood alterations.

Methods: A systematic literature search on the occurrence of mood disorders in patients with cerebellar pathologies (1^st research strategy) and on the presence of cerebellar alterations in mood disorders (2^nd research strategy) was conducted using the PubMed electronic Internet database. For this systematic review all information was written based on the PRISMA-P statement.

Results: The results of the 1^st research strategy generated 9 articles, and in one of these, a direct correlation between cerebellar damage and the onset of mood disorder was reported. The 2^nd research strategy generated 14 articles that were grouped according to the patient's mood phase (manic or depressive) or diagnosis (bipolar I or bipolar II).

Conclusions: The present review suggests that the cerebellum should be considered a key structure involved in the regulation of mood.

Keywords: Bipolar disorder; Cerebellum; MRI; Mania; Mood; Psychiatry.