Common Causes And Complications Of OCD

Autoimmune Causes

There is some research indicating obsessive-compulsive disorder might be correlated with certain autoimmune diseases. An underlying autoimmune condition can potentially trigger OCD in some individuals. Alternatively, both the autoimmune condition and OCD may be related to an unidentified underlying condition. Researchers are still trying to determine the actual link between obsessive-compulsive disorder and autoimmune disorders. Some research shows OCD has a higher prevalence in children who develop streptococcal infections. The theory is OCD symptoms occur because the body undergoes an autoimmune response to bacterial infections. Medical researchers have coined the term PANDAS to talk about children who have unusually sudden OCD behaviors or tics that develop following an infection. PANDAS stands for 'pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcal infections.' Researchers believe genetics likely play a role in an individual's risk of developing PANDAS. They have also noted unusual correlations between certain antibodies in a child's blood and whether or not they develop PANDAS.

Uncover additional causes and complications of obsessive-compulsive disorder now.