Obsessive-compulsive Disorder in Children and Adolescents

Background: Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a common psychiatric condition that usually emerges during childhood or adolescence. Over 80% of individuals with OCD have their onset before age 18 years. Epidemiologic studies suggest a prevalence of 1-2% for adolescents.

Method: This article reviews current knowledge of paediatric OCD in the following areas: age of onset, nosology and classification, subtypes, prevalence, aetiology, pathophysiology, assessment, prognosis and treatment.

Results: Essential components of treatment include long-term commitment, care management and illness education. Specific components of treatment include cognitive-behavioural therapy, parent behaviour management training and medication.

Conclusions: The most effective treatments are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (e.g. fluvoxamine, sertraline) and exposure/response prevention.