Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

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Prepare for the PLAB Exam with a comprehensive quiz. Test your knowledge with multiple choice questions. Each query includes detailed hints and explanations to ensure you're ready for success on your exam day!

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What role does ECT play in the treatment of OCD?

First-line treatment
Used in treatment-resistant cases
Found to be ineffective
Only used for anxiety disorders

The correct answer is: Used in treatment-resistant cases

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is primarily indicated for treatment-resistant cases of severe mood disorders, but it can also play a role in the management of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), particularly when other treatments have failed. The key characteristic of ECT in this context is its intervention for patients who do not respond adequately to first-line treatments such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). In cases of OCD where traditional therapies have been ineffective, ECT may provide significant relief of symptoms, making it a valuable option for patients experiencing debilitating distress. Its use reflects a more advanced or specialized approach to treatment, focusing on those individuals who have not achieved improvement through more commonly employed methodologies. The distinctions between the available answers highlight the importance of recognizing ECT's specific role and limitations, and the focus here is that it is not a first-line treatment for OCD, nor is its use limited solely to anxiety disorders. Rather, its application is primarily in cases that are deemed treatment-resistant.