Hoarding Disorder and Diogenes Syndrome: Two Case Reports and a Narrative Review

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Psychiatry
• Public Health

Background:

• Hoarding disorder (HD) and Diogenes syndrome (DS) present significant challenges impacting patients and society.
• These conditions involve excessive hoarding, often with physical/mental comorbidities, reduced quality of life, and public health concerns.

Observation:

• Two case reports illustrate diverse presentations: a 35-year-old with early-onset HD and OCD, and a 78-year-old with DS linked to vascular dementia.
• These cases emphasize the critical need for prompt diagnosis and integrated management.

Findings:

• Timely diagnosis and multidisciplinary interventions are crucial for preventing deterioration and addressing health/safety issues.
• Advanced treatments like TMS and ECT may benefit complex cases, necessitating practical guidelines for care.
• There is a significant need for randomized controlled trials to compare treatment efficacy.

Implications:

• Improved clinical awareness and management strategies are essential for addressing HD and DS.
• Further research, particularly RCTs, is vital for developing evidence-based treatment guidelines.
• Effective care can mitigate harm to patients and the community, improving overall public health.