Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders — MCQs

Q: What neurotransmitter is mainly involved in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)?

Serotonin. ***Serotonin*** - The **serotonin system** is consistently implicated in the pathophysiology of OCD, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (**SSRIs**) are the first-line pharmacotherapy. - Dysregulation in **serotonin levels** and receptor function is thought to contribute to the repetitive thoughts and compulsive behaviors characteristic of the disorder. *GABA* - **Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)** is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain and is mainly associated with anxiety disorders. - While anxiety is often comorbid with OCD, GABA dysregulation is not considered the primary neurochemical basis for the core symptoms of OCD. *NE* - **Norepinephrine (NE)** is a neurotransmitter involved in the 'fight or flight' response, attention, and mood. - While NE imbalances can contribute to anxiety and mood disorders, it is not considered the main neurotransmitter primarily implicated in the core pathology of OCD. *Dopamine* - **Dopamine** is mainly associated with reward, motivation, and motor control, and plays a role in conditions like schizophrenia and Parkinson's disease. - While dopamine has a **significant secondary role** in OCD (especially in the cortico-striato-thalamo-cortical circuits) and dopamine antagonists are used as augmentation therapy in treatment-resistant cases, **serotonin remains the primary neurotransmitter** implicated in OCD pathophysiology.

Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders — MCQs

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Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

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Body Dysmorphic Disorder

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Hoarding Disorder

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Trichotillomania

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Excoriation (Skin-Picking) Disorder

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Tic Disorders

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Tourette's Syndrome

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Pharmacotherapy for OCD and Related Disorders

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Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for OCD

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Neurosurgical Approaches

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OCD in Children and Adolescents

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OCD Spectrum Disorders

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