Preface

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is now recognized as a serious and chronic illness. It affects more than 2% of the population, making it more common than schizophrenia. Although in the last decade we have witnessed considerable advances on both the pharmacological and the behavioral fronts, fewer than 50% of cases benefit significantly from currently available treatments. Consequently, one of the questions most frequently discussed in the field today is how to manage OCD patients who do not respond to conventional therapeutic approaches. To address this question, we have included contributions from both theoretical and practical standpoints. Although etiology, diagnosis, assessment, and treatment of nonrefractory OCD are all covered, this volume emphasizes treatment-resistant illness.