The Pathogenesis and Treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a common, chronic, severe psychiatric disorder in which people have persistent and unwanted thoughts and rigid behaviors. The main treatments for OCD include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) but the results are not significant and very few people achieve complete remission. The cortico-striato-thalamo-cortical (CSTC) circuit is widely considered to be the neuroanatomical substrate of OCD. Based on genetic research, this circuit is operation is significantly influenced by genes that regulate the glutamatergic, dopaminergic, and serotonergic systems as well as their interactions. However, the inability to pinpoint the precise pathophysiology behind this intricate and varied condition has impeded attempts to create novel treatments or improve those that already exist. This review focuses on the pathogenesis and contributing factors associated with research aimed at elucidating the pathophysiology of OCD and advancing therapeutic interventions. By studying the neurobiological basis of OCD, including neural circuits, neurotransmitter system and genetic factors, people can understand the pathogenesis of OCD deeply, and provide a scientific basis for formulating more effective therapeutic strategies.