Therapies for obsessive-compulsive disorder: Current state of the art and perspectives for approaching treatment-resistant patients

Abstract

Even though obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is one of the ten most disabling diseases according to the WHO, only 30–40% of patients suffering from OCD seek specialized treatment. The currently available psychotherapeutic and pharmacological approaches, when properly applied, prove ineffective in about 10% of cases. The use of neuromodulation techniques, especially Deep Brain Stimulation, is highly promising for these clinical pictures and knowledge in this domain is constantly evolving. The aim of this paper is to provide a summary of the current knowledge about OCD treatment, while also discussing the more recent proposals for defining resistance.

Management and Treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): A Literature Review

“…Even with appropriate OCD treatment, approximately half of OCD patients continue to experience disabling residual symptoms [ 25 ]. For those with treatment-resistant or refractory OCD, neuromodulation and neurosurgery may be a viable option [ 15 ].…”

“…In this review, the term “refractory OCD” is employed to encompass both refractory and treatment-resistant OCD patients. It is defined as a lack of response after three to six months of treatment with at least three different antidepressants, including clomipramine, and at least two add-on trials involving atypical antipsychotics [ 25 ].…”