Comorbidity of adult ADHD and obsessive-compulsive disorder

Abstract

Introduction

In prospective and controlled studies followed up until adult age of patients diagnosed with ADHD in their childhood, the most frequent comorbid disorders were major depressive disorder, personality disorder (borderline and antisocial), substance use disorder and, less frequently, panic disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder.

Objectives

We report the case of a male patient aged 60, diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder from his adolescence. His psychopathological progress has become aggravated over the years. Nowadays, he presents an important restlessness, which has led him to social isolation and family claudication.

Methodology

Our patient is admitted to the Psychiatric Day Hospital with an appropriated treatment for his OCD (sertraline and aripiprazole). After several days under observation, we used the scales ASRS-V1.1 y WURS finding results that suggested adult ADHD. Extended release methylphenidate was prescribed, with a fast improving of our patient's symptoms of restlessness, insecurity and impulsion phobia. He was discharged from the Centre for Psychosocial Rehabilitation showing a good evolution.

Results

• – Anankastic personality disorder (F60.5);

• – Dependent personality disorder (F60.7);

• – Hyperkinetic disorders (F90).

Conclusions

Seventy-five percent of adults diagnosed with ADHD have comorbid disorders that should be used as severity rates, since they may cover up the ADHD symptoms or complicate the response to treatment. Adults with ADHD present high score on the scales “social maladjustment” and an often concomitant and polymorphic psychiatric pathology, object of varied diagnoses.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.