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Reduced cortical thickness in first episode schizophrenia.
C Christoph Schultz1, Kathrin Koch, Gerd Wagner
1Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Philosophenweg 3, 07740 Jena, Germany. christoph.schultz@med.uni-jena.de
Schizophrenia Research
|November 21, 2009
Summary
First episode schizophrenia is linked to widespread cortical thinning, particularly in fronto-temporal regions. These findings suggest early neurodevelopmental disruptions in schizophrenia patients.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimaging
- Neuropsychiatry
- Brain Morphology
Background:
- Previous studies indicate altered cortical thickness in prefronto-temporal regions in early schizophrenia.
- This study extends prior research using a comprehensive vertex-wise analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detect and quantify cortical thickness alterations in first episode schizophrenia using an entire cortex vertex-wise approach.
- To identify specific brain regions affected by cortical thinning in early schizophrenia.
Main Methods:
- 54 first episode schizophrenia patients and 54 matched healthy controls underwent MRI scans.
- Automated software (Freesurfer) estimated cortical thickness.
- Statistical maps analyzed group differences in cortical thickness.
Main Results:
- Significant cortical thinning was observed in schizophrenia patients compared to controls.
- Affected areas include dorsolateral prefrontal, frontopolar, anterior cingulate, orbitofrontal, superior temporal, and superior parietal cortices.
- Cortical thinning ranged from 4.4-5.7%, with up to 7.1% reduction in orbitofrontal regions.
Conclusions:
- Early schizophrenia exhibits widespread cortical thickness reduction, predominantly in fronto-temporal heteromodal cortices.
- These morphometric findings support theories of neurodevelopmental deficits and disrupted cortical maturation in schizophrenia.
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