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Updated: May 25, 2026

Standardized Data Acquisition for Neuromelanin-Sensitive Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Substantia Nigra
Published on: September 8, 2021
Systematic meta-review and quality assessment of the structural brain alterations in schizophrenia
Alana M Shepherd1, Kristin R Laurens, Sandra L Matheson
1University of New South Wales Research Unit for Schizophrenia Epidemiology, O'Brien Centre at St. Vincent's Hospital, 394-404 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia. alana.shepherd@unsw.edu.au
Background:
The large quantity of systematic reviews of magnetic resonance imaging studies in schizophrenia challenges their meaningful interpretation. This meta-review synthesises the available information from systematic reviews of structural alteration in both chronic and first-episode schizophrenia.
Methods:
Systematic reviews were identified using electronic databases. Review methodological quality was assessed according to the Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews checklist. Data were extracted in duplicate and quality assessed for consistency and precision, guided by Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation recommendations.
Results:
Integration of volumetric and voxel-based estimates allowed critical assessment of the magnitude and location of anatomical differences. There is evidence for grey matter reductions of anterior cingulate, frontal (particularly medial and inferior) and temporal lobes, hippocampus/amygdala, thalamus, and insula that may be magnified over time. Other regional alterations appear specific to illness stage or medication status.
Conclusions:
There is limited high quality evidence supporting grey or white matter changes in schizophrenia, which has previously been obscured by a large volume of conflicting lower quality evidence.
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