Neuromodulation via Deep Brain Stimulation in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder—Present and Perspectives

Abstract

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a highly heterogeneous condition. Obsessions and compulsions can vary substantially between patients (e.g., washing, checking, mental rituals, hoarding). Likewise, the neuropsychological mechanism underlying compulsivity can be manifold (e.g., harm avoidance, habit formation, cognitive inflexibility, behavioral disinhibition). While some patients experience a mild waxing and waning of symptoms in adulthood, others develop a severe chronic disorder from early childhood.