Prospective follow-up study in early onset obsessive-compulsive disorder

The aim of this prospective follow-up study is to describe the long-term outcome of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) with onset in childhood or adolescence as well as psychiatric comorbidity. Methods: A cohort of 30 former patients who had been treated for OCD in the Clinic for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry of the University of Wurzburg were assessed by means of standardized measures in a personal examination at the beginning of their treatment and again after a follow-up period of 6 years. Results: At follow-up, 46.7% of the participants still fulfilled the DSM-IV criteria for OCD. Some 23.3% of the former patients showed subclinical OCD symptoms. 70% met the criteria for any Axis I disorder, 42% for any Axis II personality disorder. Predominantly anxiety and affective disorders, but also obsessive-compulsive and anxious-avoidant personality disorders were found. Six persons showed a complete remission. Conclusions: The rate of 46.7% persistent OCD matches the outcomes found in a meta-analysis (41%); however, lower persistence rates were expected in view of improved treatment options. An extension of the sample is planned. Factors maintaining preservation of OCD should be analyzed.