Obsessive-compulsive spectrum of disorders: a defensible construct?
OBJECTIVE
To explore critically whether there is a robust basis for the concept of an obsessive-compulsive (OC) spectrum of disorders, and if so, which disorders should be included.


METHODS
Selective literature review concentrating on three proposed members of the OC spectrum, namely body dysmorphic disorder, hypochondriasis and trichotillomania.


RESULTS
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) itself is a heterogeneous condition or group of conditions, and this needs to be appreciated in any articulation of a 'spectrum' of OC disorders. The basis for 'membership' of the spectrum is inconsistent and varied, with varying level of support for inclusion in the putative spectrum.


CONCLUSIONS
A more fruitful approach may be to consider behaviours and dimensions in OCD and OC spectrum disorders, and that this should be encompassed in further developments of the OC spectrum model.
Castle
David J
DJ
Mental Health Research Institute and University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia. dcastle@mhri.edu.au
Phillips
Katharine A
KA
D006801:Humans; D006998:Hypochondriasis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000453:epidemiology; D009771:Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder / Q000145:classification* / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000453:epidemiology; D017367:Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use; D013001:Somatoform Disorders / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000453:epidemiology; D014256:Trichotillomania / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000453:epidemiology
D017367:Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors