Insular Cortex Changes in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Author Information
Author(s): Song Aram, Jung Wi Hoon, Jang Joon Hwan, Kim Euitae, Shim Geumsook, Park Hye Yoon, Choi Chi-Hoon, Kwon Jun Soo
Primary Institution: Seoul National University
Hypothesis
The volume of each insular subregion would demonstrate different relationships with the predominant OC symptoms in OCD patients.
Conclusion
OCD patients show enlarged anterior and reduced posterior insular cortices, particularly in those with checking symptoms.
Supporting Evidence
- OCD patients showed higher BDI and BAI scores than healthy controls.
- Enlarged anterior and reduced posterior insular cortices were observed in OCD patients.
- The volumetric alterations were more significant in OCD patients with predominant checking symptoms.
- Significant group differences in asymmetric relation between the AIC and PIC volumes were found.
Takeaway
People with obsessive-compulsive disorder have different sizes of brain areas related to feelings and body awareness, which can affect their symptoms.
Methodology
Magnetic resonance imaging was used to measure the gray matter volumes of the insular cortex in OCD patients and healthy controls.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the unequal gender distribution and the influence of depression on results.
Limitations
Higher depression and anxiety levels in OCD patients may confound results; the sample had more males than females.
Participant Demographics
41 OCD patients (29 males, 12 females) and 53 healthy controls (41 males, 12 females).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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