Characterization of Childhood-Onset Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Completed
Conditions studied: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
In brief
The purpose of this study is to learn more about Obsessive-compulsive Disorder (OCD) in children. OCD usually has a slow onset, and symptoms that may remain at a stable level over time. A subset of children with OCD has a sudden onset and symptoms that fluctuate in severity over time. This study will also compare healthy children to those with OCD. This is an observational study; children who participate will not receive any new or experimental therapies. OCD affects nearly 1% of the pediatric population. The symptoms of this illness can interrupt development, causing significant psychological distress and producing life-long impairments in social, academic, and occupational functioning. A subgroup of pediatric OCD has been designated by the acronym PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections). This type of OCD is characterized by sudden symptom onset and a relapsing-remitting course of illness; exacerbation of symptoms occurs with scarlet fever or strep. throat infections. This study will identify factors that distinguish children with PANDAS OCD from children with non-PANDAS OCD, and will compare both groups to healthy children. Children with OCD and their parents are screened with interviews and a review of the child's medical records. Participants have an initial evaluation that includes a psychiatric, physical and neuromotor exam, neuropsychological testing, psychological interviews, and a blood test. Structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRS) scans of the brain are also obtained. The MRS scan does not use radiation. After the initial evaluation, children with OCD have follow-up visits every 6 weeks for 12 to 24 months. They are seen yearly for 8 years after the study. If they have a significant improvement or worsening of their symptoms, they are asked to make a maximum of two extra visits. Parents of OCD patients are called four times a year to discuss any changes in the child's condition between yearly visits. All participants have a 1-year follow-up visit upon study completion.
Key facts
- Study ID
- NCT00044239
- Run by
- National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
- People needed
- 49
- Starts
- 2002-08-20
- Expected to finish
- 2010-05-18
- Last updated by the study team
- 2017-07-02
Who can join
Age: 4 and older, up to 12. Sex: any. Healthy volunteers: accepted.
You may not qualify if…
- OCD Participants:
- Diagnosis of schizophrenia, schizoaffective, bipolar, delusional, or psychotic disorder; autistic spectrum disorder or pervasive developmental disorder; neurologic disorder other than tics; or rheumatic fever.
- Significant or unstable medical illness.
- Full scale IQ less than 80.
- Healthy Controls:
- Full scale IQ less than 80.
- Significant or unstable medical illness.
Where it is running
- University of Arkansas — Little Rock, Arkansas, United States
- University of Florida — Gainesville, Florida, United States
- Cornell University — New York, New York, United States
- Utah State University — Logan, Utah, United States
Full record on ClinicalTrials.gov
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