Obsessive compulsive disorder

Abstract

In the last three decades effective treatments for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) have become available. Pharmacotherapy of OCD results in a significant reduction of symptoms. Behaviour therapy, while producing similar or better results, has the added advantage that some patients remain well in the absence of continuing treatment. Despite significant advances in the treatment of OCD, aetiological and prognostic factors remain unclear. The relationship of OCD to other disorders also remains uncertain. It is clear that considerably more research is warranted before any conclusions regarding the development of OCD and its relationship to other disorders can be drawn.