On phenomenology and classification of hoarding: a review.
OBJECTIVE
Hoarding is a behavioural abnormity characterized by the excessive collection of poorly usable objects. It is described mainly in association with obsessive-compulsive disorders (OCDs) and in geriatric populations. Yet the literature on the phenomenon is heterogeneous and the notion obviously lacks a consistent definition. This review attempts to describe the psychopathological and clinical spectrum of hoarding and may contribute to clarify its classification.


METHODS
Systematic review and discussion of the literature on hoarding.


RESULTS
Hoarding is a complex behavioural phenomenon associated with different mental disorders. The psychopathological structure is variously composed of elements of OCDs, impulse-control disorders, and ritualistic behaviour. Severe self-neglect is a possible consequence of hoarding.


CONCLUSIONS
Without further specifications the term hoarding is of limited heuristic value and cannot guide therapeutic interventions satisfactorily. The condition needs to be evaluated carefully in every particular case in relation to the aforementioned psychopathological concepts.
Psychiatric Department, Zurich University Hospital, CH-8091 Zurich, Switzerland. thomas.maier@usz.ch
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D000368:Aged; D000375:Aging / Q000523:psychology; D007174:Disruptive, Impulse Control, and Conduct Disorders / Q000145:classification* / Q000523:psychology*; D005852:Geriatric Psychiatry; D006795:Household Products; D006801:Humans; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000150:complications; D008875:Middle Aged; D009771:Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder / Q000145:classification* / Q000523:psychology*; D010551:Personality