CME 
JOBS 
OUTBREAKS 
PEER-TO-PEER 
QUIZZES & QUESTIONS 
MEDTECH 
This 24-year prospective study, conducted from 1992 to 2018, examines the prevalence and course of symptomatic disorders in patients with borderline personality disorder (BPD) compared to other personality-disordered individuals. The research provides insights into the long-term progression of comorbid disorders in BPD and factors associated with recovery.
Study Design:
- Naturalistic prospective follow-up study (McLean Study of Adult Development)
- 362 inpatients assessed at 12 contiguous 2-year follow-up waves over 24 years
- Symptomatic disorders assessed using Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-III-R Axis I Disorders
- Generalized estimating equations used for outcome analysis
Key Findings:
- BPD patients had significantly higher rates of all 5 types of disorders studied compared to comparison subjects
- Prevalence of symptomatic disorders declined significantly over time at similar rates for both BPD and comparison groups
- Similar decline observed in both recovered and non-recovered BPD patients
- Absence of substance use disorders was the strongest predictor of BPD recovery (relative risk ratio: 2.53, P < .001)
HCN Medical Memo
This longitudinal study highlights the importance of comprehensive, long-term care for BPD patients, with a particular emphasis on addressing substance use disorders. Clinicians should consider integrating substance use treatment into BPD management strategies to potentially improve recovery outcomes.
More on Personality Disorders
