Which diagnosis is likely for an individual presenting with panic attacks and avoidance of crowds?

The presence of panic attacks coupled with avoidance of crowds strongly suggests a diagnosis of Panic Disorder with Agoraphobia. Individuals with this condition typically experience recurrent and unexpected panic attacks, leading to significant anxiety about having future attacks. This fear often drives them to avoid situations where they might feel trapped or helpless, particularly crowded places where escape could be difficult.

Panic Disorder is characterized by the occurrence of panic attacks, but when the person begins to avoid specific situations or environments due to the fear of experiencing these attacks, it evolves into Agoraphobia. This condition can lead to substantial limitations in daily activities, as individuals might avoid public spaces, travel, or even leaving their home.

Other diagnoses present in the choices, while they could involve anxiety symptoms, do not fully encapsulate the combination of panic attacks and crowd avoidance as specifically as Panic Disorder with Agoraphobia does. Generalized Anxiety Disorder involves excessive worry about various aspects of life but does not specifically correlate with panic attacks or avoidance behaviors. Social Phobia focuses on anxiety in social situations but does not necessarily involve the recurrent panic attacks. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder centers on intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors rather than panic attacks and avoidance related to anxiety about specific situations.

Thus, the combination