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Cortical thickness abnormalities in trichotillomania: international multi-site analysis
Samuel R Chamberlain1,2, Michael Harries3, Sarah A Redden3
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, Box 189 Level E4, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, CB2 0QQ, UK. src33@cam.ac.uk.
Brain Imaging and Behavior
|July 1, 2017
Summary
Trichotillomania patients exhibit increased cortical thickness in the right inferior frontal gyrus, suggesting a specific brain abnormality in this hair-pulling disorder. This finding differs from other compulsive disorders, indicating unique neurobiological underpinnings.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Neuroimaging
Background:
- Trichotillomania is a psychiatric disorder involving repetitive hair pulling.
- Understanding its neurobiological basis is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate structural brain abnormalities in trichotillomania.
- To pool global neuroimaging data for robust analysis.
Main Methods:
- Meta-analysis of de-identified MRI scans from trichotillomania patients and controls.
- Comparison of cortical thickness and sub-cortical volumes.
Main Results:
- Patients (n=76) showed significantly greater cortical thickness in a cluster centered on the right inferior frontal gyrus compared to controls (n=41).
- No significant differences in sub-cortical volumes were observed.
- Increased cortical thickness was unrelated to symptom severity.
Conclusions:
- Structural changes in the right inferior frontal gyrus may be central to trichotillomania pathophysiology.
- These findings suggest a distinct neurobiological profile compared to other impulsive-compulsive disorders.
- Further research should explore sub-cortical and cerebellar morphology.
