OCD Detected with Brain Imaging
A study published in the journal Brain indicates that patients with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) have distinct patterns within the structure of their brains, as do their close relatives. Their data supports the development of the first neurocognitive endophenotype for OCD.
The Cambridge University research team sought to develop an endophenotype of OCD. In pursuit of such, they completed MRI studies of almost 100 people, including individuals who had been diagnosed with OCD and first degree relatives of patients with OCD who themselves did not have the condition. A matched control group was also recruited. Participants also completed a computerized test which objectively measured the ability to stop repetitive behaviors.
The control group was more able to discontinue the repetitive behavior compared to both the OCD patients and family members of people with OCD. As well, findings from MRI indicate that those individuals have decreases in the grey matter in the right inferior frontal region and the orbitofrontal region. Those areas of the brain are responsible for suppressing habits and responses. Also noted on the MRIs was increased grey matter in striatal, parietal, and cingulate regions.
The researchers concluded that these findings may implicate a genetic risk for the development of OCD. Moreover, this data supports these brain structures as candidates for OCD phenotypes. At this point in time, the genes responsible for this condition have yet to be identified.
November 29, 2007 Related topics: Diagnostic, Psychiatry & Neurology