Obsessive–compulsive disorder

Obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) is a common and often disabling disorder that is frequently underdiagnosed and undertreated. While once viewed as an expression of unconscious conflict, OCD is now widely regarded as a neuropsychiatric disorder. The pathogenesis of OCD may be mediated by characteristic dysfunctions in neural circuitry and neurochemistry, which then culminate in hallmark obsessions and compulsions. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and cognitive behavioral therapy (exposure and response prevention) are the first-line pharmaco- and psychotherapy for OCD, although response to these treatments is variable. Further work to delineate the neurobiological basis of the disorder would perhaps aid the search for novel therapeutic strategies.