OCD linked to childhood illness

By Shelby D Burns, Thu, September 29, 2011

Strep throat, a common infection for children, is linked to future problems with a child’s heart, joints or brain when left untreated. When the brain gets involved, motor and mental functioning may be affected. This could lead to disorders like attention deficit disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder according to research.

The link between strep and OCD has long been suspected. It has been examined for more than twenty years with some research and lots of speculation. Now researchers from Tel Aviv University have scientifically demonstrated that strep can lead to brain dysfunction and OCD. Professor Daphna Joel and her team believe their research could lead to new drugs for treating OCD and may diminish the number of people who suffer from it.

“It’s almost impossible to show how strep can lead to OCD in humans – almost all of us, even very young children, have been exposed to the bacterium at one time or another,” says Joel. “But childhood seems to provide a distinct window of opportunity for the disorder to take root through strep infection.”

The research team started with strep exposed rats which had developed antibodies found deposited in their brains. Those exposed developed balance and coordination issues as well as compulsive behaviors seen in grooming habits.

More important, the strep antibody bonded to dopamine D1 and D2 receptors in the brain. “We were able to show that these antibodies are binding to receptors in the brain and changing the way certain neurotransmitters operate, leading to brain dysfunction and motor and behavioral symptoms,” concluded Joel.

Source: American Friends of Tel Aviv University, MedicalNewsToday

Free Treatment Assessment
Call Now—Help Available 24/7 (877) 331-9311

OCD Self Test

Do you or a loved one feel like you might have a problem with OCD?
Take the Self Test now to get more information.

Sponsored Links

The information provided on brainphysics.com is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between a patient/site visitor and his/her health professional. This information is solely for informational and educational purposes. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. Neither the owners or employees of brainphysics.com nor the author(s) of site content take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading this site. Always speak with your primary health care provider before engaging in any form of self treatment. Click here to read our complete Terms of Use.