Obsessive-compulsive disorder following severe traumatic brain injury.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) as a consequence of severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) has been reported in a limited number of case studies. Informed by CARE guidelines, we present the case of a boy in his late adolescence who sustained a severe TBI from a motor vehicle crash. His injuries required a prolonged stay in the hospital, including 3 weeks in the intensive care unit and a craniotomy to evacuate a large subdural haematoma. Obsessive-compulsive behaviours were first observed on discharge from the hospital and became worse over time. Compulsive behaviours were considered in light of a neuropsychological examination, and a diagnosis of OCD was attained. Sertraline was prescribed and effectively reduced the severity of OCD symptoms. Given the challenges comorbid conditions can pose to neurorehabilitation, a better understanding of patterns in OCD symptoms and brain lesions among reported cases will help guide the diagnosis of OCD among individuals with severe TBI. © BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2024. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.

Citation

Alison Janelle Wilson, Regan King, Chantel Debert. Obsessive-compulsive disorder following severe traumatic brain injury. BMJ case reports. 2024 Jan 09;17(1)

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PMID: 38199653

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