A survey of the phenomenology and pharmacotherapy of compulsive and impulsive-aggressive symptoms in Prader-Willi syndrome

Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) is a congenital disorder characterized by hyperphagia as well as by other behavioral disturbances such as self-mutilation and temper outbursts. Some of these symptoms have been reported to respond to psychotropic medications. A systematic survey was conducted to gather information on the phenomenology and pharmacotherapy of compulsive and impulsive-aggressive symptoms in PWS. Both compulsive and impulsive-aggressive symptoms are frequent in this population. Pharmacotherapeutic intervention may have a role in the management of these symptoms. Rigorous diagnostic and treatment studies should be undertaken in this population.