Obsessive–compulsive disorder post-COVID-19: a case presentation

Abstract

Background: Since the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic and the significant changes that impacted because of it, people around the world have been left dealing with its consequences—fear of becoming ill and dying, fear of losing loved ones, uncertainty about the future, and imposed social isolation—several elements which could lead to psychological consequences. Moreover, as suggested by recent evidence, the virus acts as a factor in causing psychological symptoms, including depression, anxiety, fatigue, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Case presentation: Here, we report a case of a patient with new-onset OCD after his recovery from the coronavirus disease, which presented in the form of recurrent and persistent intrusive thoughts and doubts which responded to medication. Conclusions: This case shows the potential of COVID-19-associated inflammatory triggers to precipitate or induce obsessive–compulsive symptoms. Although this case cannot support causation, it does stress the bidirectional effects that physical and mental illness share.