Browsing by Author "Huotari, Pinja"

Introduction: The purpose of this review is to point out the results of genetic studies on borderline personality disorder and to discuss the possible genetic influence in the development of the disorder in relation to other influencing etiological factors. This review evaluates if research results support the heritability of borderline personality disorder. At the early stages of the disorders’ etiological studies only psychosocial factors were examined, thus the genetic point of view in the development of borderline symptoms was ignored. The genetic perspective has received more attention lately, however the amount of genetic studies on the subject is still rather limited. Methods: A literature search was conducted using OvidMedline database using search terms borderline personality disorder, BPD, impulsivity, heritability, genetics, development, family studies, adoption studies and twin studies. Results and Conclusions: The results of genetic studies on borderline personality disorder support its heritability. Family studies suggest a noticeable familial aggregation effect, and the risk for borderline personality disorder was greater for immediate relatives of individuals who have been diagnosed with borderline personality. Based on findings from twin studies, the heritability varied between 42-69 percent. Genetic research has not yet identified genetic variants specific to borderline personality disorder, but there was some evidence of a common genetic liability across multiple mental health disorders. Borderline personality disorder is one of the most challenging mental health disorders, and regardless its low prevalence it often leads to hospitalization or outpatient care. With an early identification and focused treatment, it could be possible to lessen individual’s suffering, increase ability to function and reduce the financial burden it causes to society. Since research results support borderline personality disorder’s heritability, raised awareness about the genetic liability amongst health care professionals is a promising start in identifying high-risk groups and planning the treatment.