Diagnosis of obsessive-compulsive illness

Obsessive-compulsive illness has long been subject to diagnostic neglect. Moreover, obsessive-compulsive features often underlie or are intercurrent with other symptom pictures and may be quite debilitating. Diagnostic dilemmas are discussed regarding obsessive-compulsive illness and its relation to eating disorders, generalized anxiety disorder, mood disorders, alcohol abuse, and adult attention deficit disorder. Some difficulties in eliciting and recognizing obsessive-compulsive illness are presented. These include patient secrecy, shame, and social and personality features of health professionals. Specific pharmacologic and therapeutic interventions are effective when directed at the intercurrent or underlying obsessive-compulsive illness.