In this first meta-analysis on comorbidities in OCD across the lifespan we found that more than two thirds of patients, children or adults, have comorbid disorders. NDDs are equally prevalent in children and adults, whereas anxiety disorders (children > adults) and mood disorders (adults > children) show age related variations. Age at assessment, gender, age of onset, and illness severity are significant factors impacting comorbidity prevalence in OCD. This meta-analysis suggests the need for a screening, guided by the age at assessment, and a longitudinal tracking, especially of symptoms that may be phenomenologically related to OCD, for a comprehensive ascertainment of comorbidities.
