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Obsessive-compulsive disorder — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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HardPsychiatryObsessive-compulsive disorderUSMLE Step 3

A 52-year-old woman compulsively checks that the stove is off for 2 hours each night. She recognizes the behavior is excessive but feels unbearable anxiety if she stops. Symptoms have caused repeated tardiness to work. She has no psychosis or substance use. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: C — Obsessive-compulsive disorder

Intrusive fears and repetitive checking rituals that are time-consuming, distressing, and recognized as excessive are characteristic of obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Reference: DSM-5-TR; APA obsessive-compulsive disorder guidance