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Bradykinesia in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder
M Pasquini1, G Fabbrini, G Moretti
1Department of Psychiatric Sciences and Psychological Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
Summary
Mild bradykinesia (a motor symptom) is present in 34% of patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). This motor symptom is linked to more severe compulsions and lower cognitive scores in OCD patients.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Movement Disorders
Background:
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a neuropsychiatric condition characterized by obsessions and compulsions.
- Motor symptoms, such as bradykinesia, are not typically considered a primary feature of OCD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of bradykinesia in antipsychotic-free OCD patients.
- To explore the neuropsychological and neuropsychiatric characteristics of OCD patients with bradykinesia.
Main Methods:
- 23 antipsychotic-free OCD patients and 13 healthy controls were assessed.
- Bradykinesia was evaluated using the Unified Parkinson Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) Section III.
- Cognitive functions, including IQ, visuospatial abilities, and psychomotor speed, were assessed using the Wechsler Adult Intelligent Scales-Revised (WAIS-R).
Main Results:
- 34% (8 of 23) of OCD patients exhibited mild bradykinesia.
- Bradykinesia in OCD was associated with increased severity of compulsions, particularly repeating compulsions.
- OCD patients with bradykinesia showed lower Full Scale IQ, performance IQ, and specific WAIS-R subtest scores (similarities, picture completion) compared to those without bradykinesia.
Conclusions:
- Mild bradykinesia is a frequently observed motor symptom in adult OCD patients.
- The presence of bradykinesia in OCD may indicate distinct neuropsychological deficits and more severe compulsive behaviors.
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