EPIDEMIOLOGY OF OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE DISORDER - A WORLD-VIEW

The worldwide prevalence of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is app roximately 2% of the general population. Symptoms of OCD include fear of contamination by dirt or germs; constant checking; repetitive, intr usive thoughts of a somatic, aggressive, or sexual nature; extreme slo wness; and an inordinate concern with orderliness and symmetry. Differ ential diagnosis is sometimes complicated by the overlap between OCD a nd obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD). The most common c omplication of OCD is depression. However, while both serotonergic and nonserotonergic antidepressants are effective in treating patients wi th depression, only serotonergic medications are effective in treating OCD patients. Because OCD patients often attempt to conceal their sym ptoms, it is incumbent on clinicians to screen for OCD in every mental status examination, since appropriate treatment can often result in i mproved quality of life.