Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 24, 2026
05:14
Standardized Data Acquisition for Neuromelanin-Sensitive Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Substantia Nigra
Published on: September 8, 2021
Morphometric magnetic resonance imaging in psychiatry
David E Fleck1, Jayasree Nandagopal, Michael A Cerullo
1Division of Bipolar Disorders Research, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267-0559, USA. fleckde@email.uc.edu
Topics in Magnetic Resonance Imaging : TMRI
|April 14, 2009
Summary
Brain imaging (MRI) shows some patterns of regional brain loss in psychiatric disorders, but these are not yet useful for diagnosis. However, MRI shows promise for monitoring treatment outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimaging
- Psychiatry
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Clinical diagnosis of Axis I psychiatric disorders remains challenging due to overlapping symptoms.
- Morphometric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is being explored to improve disease characterization and diagnosis.
- Advances in neuroimaging offer potential for objective measures in psychiatry.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review region of interest (ROI) and voxel-based morphometry (VBM) studies.
- To assess the diagnostic utility of MRI-based morphometric patterns in Axis I psychiatric disorders.
- To evaluate the potential of neuroimaging for treatment monitoring in psychiatry.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of published morphometric MRI studies.
- Analysis of region of interest (ROI) and voxel-based morphometry (VBM) findings.
- Evaluation of diagnostic and prognostic implications of neuroimaging data.
Main Results:
- Specific patterns of regional brain volume loss are observed in certain Axis I psychiatric disorders.
- Current morphometric MRI findings are not sufficiently distinct for reliable diagnostic purposes.
- Neuroimaging techniques show significant potential for monitoring treatment response and outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Morphometric MRI patterns, while indicative of brain changes, currently lack diagnostic specificity for Axis I psychiatric disorders.
- Neuroimaging is more promising for tracking disease progression and treatment effectiveness than for initial diagnosis.
- Future research should focus on refining MRI analysis for clinical application in psychiatric care.
Related Concept Videos
01:24Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a noninvasive medical imaging technique based on a phenomenon of nuclear physics discovered in the 1930s, in which matter exposed to magnetic fields and radio waves was found to emit radio signals. In 1970, a physician and researcher named Raymond Damadian noticed that malignant (cancerous) tissue gave off different signals than normal body tissue. He applied for a patent for the first MRI scanning device in clinical use by the early 1980s. The early MRI...
01:14Brain Imaging
Brain imaging technologies provide critical insights into both the structure and function of the human brain, enabling medical professionals and researchers to diagnose, study, and treat neurological disorders or psychiatric disorders more effectively.
These technologies include computerized axial tomography (CAT or CT scans), positron-emission tomography (PET scans), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
These technologies include computerized axial tomography (CAT or CT scans), positron-emission tomography (PET scans), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
01:27Imaging Studies IV: Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Introduction:Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, can include a specialized imaging technique of the urinary system known as Magnetic Resonance Urography (MRU). This radiation-free technique uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images with the help of a computer. MRU is particularly effective for visualizing fluid-filled structures like the kidneys, ureters, and bladder.Applications of MRI in the Genitourinary SystemKidneys and Ureters: MRI detects tumors, cysts,...