The Eurasian Journal of Medicine , cilt.54, sa.Suppl. 1, ss.77-90, 2022 (ESCI)
This study aimed to review all empirical contributions published between March 2020 and June 2022,
addressing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on obsessive-compulsive disorder in adults. We searched
the literature in PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science. A total of 543 articles were scanned and
73 full-text articles were identified. Reviews, comments, letters to the editor, and case reports (except case
series) were excluded. It was determined that 42 articles met the inclusion criteria, 6 studies involving only
children and adolescents were excluded, and 36 were decided on their suitability for our study. The analysis
determined that COVID-19 had an impact on obsessive-compulsive disorder. Characteristics such as liability
for harm and unacceptable thoughts influenced the symptoms as well as contamination and washing. Some
studies showed an increase in the severity of obsessive-compulsive symptoms, while some reported no
worsening but improvement with treatment and follow-up. While some reported variations in outcomes
related to sociodemographic characteristics and subtypes, some focused on the risk of suicide. There were
also studies conducted on special groups such as pregnant women or healthcare workers. The results were
controversial. While available data contain more information on worsening obsessive-compulsive disorder
symptoms, data on the status of patients under treatment were scarce. There were not enough studies
evaluating follow-up results. Influencing factors such as sociodemographic characteristics, subtypes, comorbid
conditions, treatment, and support did not seem to have been adequately addressed