Increased levels of oxytocin in adult OCD patients

Abstract

Introduction The current model of the pathophysiology of obsessive-compulsive (OCD) is mainly centered on the serotonin (5-HT) system. However, other pharmacological targets have been identified, in particular the dopamine and glutamate systems, and also the neuropeptide oxytocin (OT), both per se and given its interactions with the 5-HT system. Objectives Given the paucity of information, the present study aimed at evaluating plasma OT levels in a group on untreated OCD patients. Aims The study aimed at evaluating plasma OT levels in a group of 44 OCD outpatients, as compared with a similar group of healthy control subjects. On the same time, the relationships between OT and clinical features and romantic attachment characteristics were examined as well. Methods Diagnosis was assessed according to DSM-IV-TR criteria, while the OCD severity was measured by means of the Y-BOCS rating scale. All patients were drug-free and not depressed. The romantic attachment was assessed by means of the Italian version of the Experiences in Close Relationships questionnaire. Plasma OT levels were evaluated by means of a standard RIA kit. Results The main findings of our study showed that OT levels were increased in OCD patients, as compared with healthy subjects, and negatively related to symptom severity. Positive relationships were detected between OT levels and the fearful-avoidant and dismissing styles of romantic attachments, but only in male OCD patients. Conclusions Taken together, these findings suggest that OT may play a role in OCD pathophysiology and also in romantic attachment of patients with gender specificity.