Detecting bipolarity using the Lebanese Arabic hypomania checklist (HCL-32): validation of shortened HCL versions
By
Josleen Al Barathie
Melissa Barakat
Elie Hantouche
George E. Karam
Elie G. Karam
May 20, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Validation of Shortened Versions of the Lebanese Arabic Hypomania Checklist (HCL-32) for Identifying Bipolar Disorder
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Bipolar Disorder (BD) Key Mechanisms Differentiation between BD and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) using hypomanic symptom assessment. Target Population Clinically diagnosed patients with BD and MDD in Lebanon. Care Setting Clinical settings for mental health assessment.
Key Highlights
Shortened HCL versions (HCL-20, -16, -8) show strong reliability (α=0.78-0.90). Good screening ability (AUC=0.8520-0.8835) for differentiating BD from MDD. HCL-16 is identified as the most optimal shortened scale for BD versus MDD. Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Utilize HCL-16 for effective screening of BD in clinical settings. Management
Consider the risk of misdiagnosis of BD as MDD and adjust treatment accordingly. Monitoring & Follow-up
Regularly assess mood fluctuations and hypomanic symptoms in patients. Risks
Undiagnosed BD can lead to worsened prognosis and increased risk of suicide. Patient & Prescribing Data
Patients diagnosed with BD-I, BD-II, and MDD.
Early identification of BD can improve treatment outcomes and reduce misdiagnosis.
Clinical Best Practices
Incorporate shorter screening tools like HCL-16 in routine assessments. Educate clinicians on the differences between BD and MDD to reduce misdiagnosis. Related Resources & Content
