A 40-year-old woman with severe, treatment-refractory OCD has failed multiple medication trials, augmentation strategies, and CBT. She is being considered for deep brain stimulation. Which target is most commonly used for OCD?
- A Subthalamic nucleus
- B Globus pallidus internus
- C Nucleus accumbens / ventral capsule ✓
- D Ventral tegmental area
Correct answer: C. Nucleus accumbens / ventral capsule
Explanation
The nucleus accumbens and ventral capsule/ventral striatum are the most studied and approved DBS targets for refractory OCD, modulating the CSTC circuit. The subthalamic nucleus and globus pallidus internus are targets for Parkinson disease and dystonia. The ventral tegmental area is involved in reward processing, not an OCD target.
Reference: Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 21st ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.