Year: 2009
Type: review
Abstract: Childhood-onset obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) affects 1%-2% of children and adolescents.It is characterized by recurrent obsessions and compulsions that create distress and interfere with daily life.The symptoms reported by children are similar to those seen among individuals who develop OCD in adulthood, and the two groups of patients are treated with similar symptom-relieving behavior therapies and medications.However, there are differences in sex ratios, patterns of comorbidity, and the results of neuroimaging studies that might be important.Here we review the diagnosis and treatment of childhood-onset OCD in light of pediatric and adult studies.We also discuss current knowledge of the pathophysiology of the disorder.Despite advances in this area, further research is needed to understand better the etiopathogenesis of the disorder and to develop new, more effective therapeutic options.Childhood-onset OCD and associated comorbidities OCD is characterized as childhood-onset if symptoms present before puberty, whereas adult OCD starts during or after puberty.At puberty, the sex ratio of affected individuals switches from predominantly males to predominantly females (11,12).Common comorbidities also change, from the attention-deficit/hyperactiv-Conflict of interest: The authors have declared that no conflict of interest exists.
DOI: 10.1172/jci37563
Authors: Simran K. Kalra, Susan E. Swedo
Language: English
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W2081942212