Obsessive-compulsive disorder in post-streptococcal infection.
OBJECTIVE
We describe the sudden onset of obsessive-compulsive symptoms following a peritoneal infection with alpha-haemolytic streptococci.


METHODS
A 35-year-old woman with no past history or family history of obsessions or compulsions developed these symptoms 2 weeks after a peritoneal infection.


METHODS
The patient received 80 mg fluoxetine daily.


RESULTS
She responded to treatment with a progressive reduction in symptoms.


CONCLUSIONS
It is suggested that these obsessions and compulsions may be related to an autoimmune response to the streptococcal infection.
Department of Psychological Medicine, Christchurch School of Medicine, New Zealand.
E
E
Monasterio
R T
RT
Mulder
T D
TD
Marshall
D000328:Adult; D018687:Antidepressive Agents, Second-Generation / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001294:Attitude to Health; D005260:Female; D005473:Fluoxetine / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D006920:Hygiene; D009771:Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology*; D010538:Peritonitis / Q000150:complications*; D010698:Phobic Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology; D013290:Streptococcal Infections / Q000150:complications*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D018687:Antidepressive Agents, Second-Generation; D005473:Fluoxetine