Misophonia: current perspectives

Andrea E Cavanna, Andrea E. Cavanna*, Stefano Seri

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Misophonia is characterized by a negative reaction to a sound with a specific pattern and meaning to a given individual. In this paper, we review the clinical features of this relatively common yet underinvestigated condition, with focus on co-occurring neurodevelopmental disorders. Currently available data on the putative pathophysiology of the condition can inform our understanding and guide the diagnostic process and treatment approach. Tinnitus retraining therapy and cognitive behavior therapy have been proposed as the most effective treatment strategies for reducing symptoms; however, current treatment algorithms should be validated in large population studies. At the present stage, competing paradigms see misophonia as a physiological state potentially inducible in any subject, an idiopathic condition (which can present with comorbid psychiatric disorders), or a symptomatic manifestation of an underlying psychiatric disorder. Agreement on the use of standardized diagnostic criteria would be an important step forward in terms of both clinical practice and scientific inquiry. Areas for future research include phenomenology, epidemiology, modulating factors, neurophysiological underpinnings, and treatment trials.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)2117-2123
Number of pages7
JournalNeuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment
Volume11
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 18 Aug 2015

Bibliographical note

This work is published by Dove Medical Press Limited, and licensed under Creative Commons Attribution - Non Commercial (unported, v3.0) License. The full terms of the License are available at http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/. Non-commercial uses of the work are permitted without any further permission from Dove Medical Press Limited, provided the work is properly attributed. Permissions beyond the scope of the License are administered by Dove Medical Press Limited. Information on how to request permission may be found at: http://www.dovepress.com/permissions.php

Keywords

  • misophonia
  • selective sound sensitivity syndrome
  • hyperacusis
  • neurodevelopmental disorders
  • Tourette syndrome
  • obsessive-compulsive spectrum

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