Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Presenting with Compulsions to Urinate Frequently

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Urology
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is a common psychiatric condition.
• Atypical presentations of OCD can complicate diagnosis and treatment pathways.
• Patients may seek care across multiple medical specialties due to unusual symptoms.

Observation:

• A young female patient presented with frequent micturition.
• She consulted multiple physicians and a urologist without a clear diagnosis.
• The symptom was identified as compulsive after further evaluation.

Findings:

• The patient was diagnosed with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).
• Treatment involved 8 weeks of Sertraline (200 mg daily) and behavioral therapy.
• Significant improvement in her condition was observed.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of considering psychiatric disorders like OCD in patients with atypical physical symptoms.
• Early and accurate diagnosis of OCD can prevent prolonged diagnostic odysseys.
• Integrated treatment approaches combining pharmacotherapy and behavioral therapy are effective for OCD.