Oniomania: a case study according to the differential diagnosis

BackgroundIn the addition context, there are few compulsive buying-shopping disorder (CBSD) or oniomania cases. Based on a case study, we decided to deepen the theoretical support to understand the differential diagnoses.
Nosological classification steel be a subject of scientific reviews and needs continuous update. Some researchers suggest that buying compulsive behavior should be classified as addiction; others refer the example the OCD, establishing a relationship with impulsive or compulsive behavior. On the other hand, some theories that consider the onimania behavior as a symptom of mood disorder or a behavioral expression of the personality trait. These differences suggest the importance of a correct differential diagnosis essential.
MethodsThe methodologies used for the research were:

• Bibliographic research on the subject oniomania (concept, epidemiology, diagnostic criteria and treatment models);
• Case study  description and comprehensive perspective of the oniomania differential diagnosis with the patient;
• Analysis of the psychological intervention with the patient.

ResultsIs a female patient, with 56 years old, who had already been monitored and medicated in psychiatric consultations. Psychotherapeutic support has begun in 2019. 
Considering the diagnosis criteria proposed in DSM-5 for compulsive buying-shopping disorder (CBSD), in this case we observe: 
·          intrusive and irresistible impulses for buying/shopping; 
·          diminished control over buying/shopping; 
·          excessive pur-chasing of items without utilizing them for their intended purposes, use of buying-shopping to regulate internal states; 
·          negative consequences and impairment in important areas of functioning due to buying/shopping;
·          emotional and cognitive symptoms upon cessation of excessive buying/shopping;
·          maintenance or escalation of dysfunctional buying/shopping behaviours despite negative consequences.
As comorbidity, she has depressive disorder, like described in bibliography.
The patient cames frequently to the appointments and is motivated to carry on with the psychotherapy and remains without episodes of compulsive behavior. During this period, she was admitted twice in a therapeutic community. Currently she has improved at individual well-being, familiar and social relationships, and especially, she is conscious of her vulnerability and anticipate the trigger that can lead to the oniomania behavior. 
ConclusionRecently, oniomania has aroused the interest of the scientific community. It is a complex entity that requires a complete psychopathological approach, to obtain an accurate differential diagnosis and, consequently, allow to choose the best therapeutic approach, as was the case reported.
More research on this entity is necessary, not only in the psychopathological understanding of the condition, but also about psychological and pharmacological therapeutic approaches.