[Functional magnetic resonance tomography of central motor areas in schizophrenic patients]

Functional Magnetic Resonance Tomography (FMRT) is a safe and noninvasive method to study human brain function by measuring task induced changes of the regional cerebral blood flow. Recent fMRT studies showed that stimulation method, psychiatric disorders and neuroleptic agents influence motor induced brain activation patterns specifically. Since these factors have been insufficiently controlled in most of the recent fMRT studies in particular on psychiatric disorders, results are often controversial. Using an intrapersonal study design and a standardized stimulation apparatus, we explored differential effects of typical and atypical neuroleptic treatment in schizophrenia. In addition to fMRT, 3D ultrasonic assisted motor analysis was used to investigate gait and hand movements. FMRT method, fMRT studies on human motor system, fMRT data on schizophrenia as well as on the influence of neuroleptic treatment are given. In particular, the own study design is presented and preliminary data are given.