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Cardiology and Neurophysiological Stimulation of Internet Gaming Disorders: A Systematic Review
1Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, Saveetha Engineering College, Thandalam, Chennai, India.
Current Cardiology Reviews
|June 24, 2024
Summary
Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) is linked to significant cardiophysiological and neurophysiological changes, including reduced heart rate variability and altered brain activity. Early detection and personalized interventions are crucial for managing this condition.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cardiology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) is a recognized mental health condition characterized by excessive gaming and functional impairments.
- Understanding the physiological effects of IGD is crucial following its inclusion in the DSM-5.
Approach:
- A systematic review of 20 studies published up to 2023 from PubMed and Scopus.
- Analysis focused on cardiophysiological (e.g., HRV, blood pressure) and neurophysiological (e.g., EEG, neuroimaging) parameters in individuals with IGD.
Key Points:
- IGD is associated with decreased Heart Rate Variability (HRV), increased sympathetic activity, and executive control deficits.
- Neuroimaging reveals heightened prefrontal cortex activation, altered reward processing, and impulse control issues in IGD.
- Gender-specific differences in brain activation patterns were observed.
Conclusions:
- Excessive gaming significantly impacts cardiophysiological and neurophysiological functions.
- Multidimensional assessments incorporating ECG, EEG, and neuroimaging are vital for diagnosing and managing IGD.
- Personalized interventions considering gender-specific differences are recommended.

