The role of neuropsychological testing in assessment of obsessive-
compulsive disorder (OCD) is examined by review of 8 case reports and 14
patient series. Investigators generally agreed on localization of
dysfunctional areas (e.g., prefrontal and frontal regions, limbic system,
basal ganglia). They disagreed as to hemisphere and frontal lobe side
impairment, involvement of other brain areas, pathophysiological
connections, and impact of developmental phases and of concomitant
cognitive and affective conditions. Conclusions about OCD pathogenesis are
limited by test and sample variability. The authors outline an integrative
approach based on sensorial and cognitive information disruptions that
require activation of less specialized circuits. OCD may be syndromic, and
subgroups may exist based on related but differentiable biochemical
pathways.Abstract Teaser