Developmental coordination disorder in adults: A case series of a condition that is underdiagnosed by adult psychiatrists

Abstract

Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) has been traditionally thought of as a childhood neurodevelopmental condition and tends to be little known among adult psychiatrists. Nonetheless, it is estimated to occur in about 5% of the general adult population. In the present article, we present 3 cases of DCD diagnosed in adulthood, demonstrating some key challenges that adult psychiatrists face: (i) motor difficulties due to DCD often persists into adulthood; (ii) adults with DCD nonetheless rarely report motor problems as their primary complaint, but rather present with secondary non-motor symptoms such as depressed mood, addiction, or anxiety; and (iii) the evidence base for diagnosis and management of DCD in adult is limited. The growing trend of adults with DCD and their psychiatric vulnerabilities suggest that more evidence is urgently warranted. Finally, for patients, the establishment of a new diagnosis of DCD is often a relief as it explains what they have been experiencing all their lives in being different, awkward and sometimes laughed at.