TRANSCRANIAL MAGNETIC STIMULATION (TMS) IN OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE DISORDER: CURRENT EVIDENCE
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31435/ijitss.2(50).2026.5372Keywords:
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Neuromodulation, PsychiatryAbstract
Objective. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a chronic psychiatric condition characterized by recurring intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors linked to dysfunction within the Cortico-Striato-Thalamo-Cortical (CSTC) circuits. Given that standard pharmacological and psychological interventions are ineffective for a significant portion of patients, there is a necessity for effective alternative neuromodulation treatments.
Aim. This review aims to synthesize current evidence regarding the neurobiological rationale, clinical safety, and utility of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), particularly in treatment-resistant OCD.
Methods. Data were collected through a systematic review of scientific databases (PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar) focusing on TMS protocols for OCD. The findings were subjected to a qualitative synthesis, focusing on target efficacy and safety profiles.
Findings. TMS is confirmed as a safe, well-tolerated, and effective adjunctive treatment. Deep TMS (dTMS) targeting the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) is the most validated protocol, demonstrating clinical superiority over sham and achieving FDA approval. Inhibitory protocols targeting the Supplementary Motor Area (SMA) also show promise. The primary challenge is methodological heterogeneity across studies.
Conclusions. TMS offers a significant, non-invasive alternative for tr-OCD. Future research must prioritize the standardization of protocols and the development of personalized TMS strategies based on individual neuroimaging data to ensure sustained long-term benefits.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Zuzanna Guzowicz, Bartosz Niemiec, Bruno Olesiński, Szymon Piosik, Łukasz Piasecki, Natalia Dudziak, Zuzanna Drozd, Monika Kamińska, Patrycja Gągałka
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