Structural brain abnormalities common to posttraumatic stress disorder and depression

Kroes, M. W., Rugg, M. D., Whalley, M. G., & Brewin, C. R. (2011). Structural brain abnormalities common to posttraumatic stress disorder and depression. Journal Of Psychiatry & Neuroscience, 36(4), 256-265. doi:10.1503/jpn.100077

This purpose of this study was to investigate the relationships between grey matter reduction in the brain in major depression and in post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD and major depression have in the past been associated with brain volume reductions in the same locations. The researchers also sought to determine if correlations existed between brain volume and perceived psychopathology as reported by the participants. This study included 82 participants: 24 had PTSD, 24 had major depression, and 29 were used in the control group. The researchers obtained sMRIs (structural magnetic imaging scans) from PTSD individuals and from those in the major depression group and in the control group. The participants reported their perceived levels of anxiety and depression. In order to determine the changes in brain volume, the researchers utilized voxel-based morphometry along with the DARTEL algorithm within SPM5. The results showed that the participant groups with PTSD and major depression had areas with smaller brain volumes in comparison to those in the control group. PTSD and major depression groups did not significantly differ from each other. In patients with PTSD, there was a negative correlation to reported anxiety and brain volume in various areas such as the inferior temporal cortex, but volume was increased in major depression participants. In those with major depression, self-perceived depression was negatively correlated to brain volume in patients with PTSD. From this study, it was determined that brain volume in individuals with PTSD and in those with major depression was similar in certain areas. There were slight differences in the reported anxiety and depression from the patients.