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.
Monasterio
E
E
Department of Psychological Medicine, Christchurch School of Medicine, New Zealand.
Mulder
R T
RT
Marshall
T D
TD
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