The purpose of the present case report is to follow the evolution of a child who presented selective mutism and evolved into bipolar mood disorder, and also to draw attention to the diversity of possible symptoms of mood disorders. In general, selective mutism starts at preschool age, although the symptoms are more evident at school age. The importance of an early diagnosis and treatment lies in the prevention of some complications, such as social and academic development and self-esteem, besides the possibility of the development of other anxiety disorders. Bipolar mood disorder is a mental disease characterized by extreme mood variations. In childhood, it hinders the child's emotional growth and development. Selective mutism is mistaken by attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and behavioral disorders, such as conduct disorder and oppositional defiance disorder. The present case report is about a female patient evaluated at 5 years and 9 months of age. We concluded the case as being a selective mutism disorder. Not only psychotherapy, with parent and school orientation, but also medication was prescribed. The first prescribed medication was use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors with good results regarding anxiety symptoms, although the patient started to present significant deterioration in behavior. Because of that, the diagnostic hypothesis came to be bipolar mood disorder with an early start. The patient presented satisfactory evolution only after given a third option of mood stabilizer medication. Selective mutism, which is an anxiety disorder in childhood, can be prodromus to other psychiatric conditions at the same age. It is necessary for pediatricians, who are the doctors that first assess these children, and also child psychiatrists, to be aware of the wealth of symptoms that can give continuation to the condition.
Child; mutism; bipolar disorder; cognitive therapy
