Neurobiology of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder provides a comprehensive review of obsessive-compulsive disorder through a neurobiological lens, offering invaluable insights for researchers and clinicians alike. The book begins with a comprehensive introduction to OCD, detailing its definition, historical perspectives, prevalence, and symptomatology, alongside its comorbidities and associated disorders. Delving into the genetic and familial aspects, the book examines genetic predispositions, heritability, and significant genome-wide association studies. In addition, it addresses neuropsychological findings, cognitive dysfunctions, and implications for treatment, alongside neurodevelopmental factors, including early life stress, immune system dysregulation, and environmental risk factors.Special attention is given to PANDAS/PANS as mechanisms of OCD pathogenesis and the insights gained from animal models. Subsequent chapters cover diagnosis, pharmacological treatments, and a range of psychotherapeutic and behavioral interventions, including CBT, ERP, and ACT, as well as neuromodulation techniques. Finally, the book presents neurobiology-informed treatment approaches, personalized medicine, and integrative strategies, concluding with discussions on current challenges, ethical considerations, and future research directions.
- Reviews the definition of OCD, historical perspectives, prevalence, symptomatology, and comorbidities
- Explores genetic predispositions, heritability, and the brain regions implicated in OCD
- Examines the roles of serotonin, dopamine, glutamate, and other neurotransmitters in the neurochemistry of OCD
- Covers pharmacological treatments and psychotherapeutic and behavioral interventions, including CBT, ERP, and neuromodulation techniques
- Discusses current research challenges, ethical considerations, promising research avenues, and future directions in the neurobiological treatment of OCD
