A pattern of cerebral perfusion anomalies between Major Depressive Disorder and Hashimoto Thyroiditis
2011

Cerebral Perfusion Patterns in Depression and Thyroiditis

Sample size: 54 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Hardoy Maria Carolina, Cadeddu Mariangela, Serra Alessandra, Moro Maria Francesca, Mura Gioia, Mellino Gisa, Bhat Krishna M, AltoƩ Gianmarco, Usai Paolo, Piga Mario, Carta Mauro G

Primary Institution: Department of Psychiatry, Reald University, Vlore, Albania

Hypothesis

The study aims to explore the relationship between Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Hashimoto Thyroiditis (HT), and regional Cerebral Blood Flow (rCBF).

Conclusion

MDD in patients with HT is characterized by parietal flow asymmetry, but further studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Supporting Evidence

  • MDD is associated with left frontal and temporal hypoperfusion.
  • Parietal perfusion asymmetry was significantly associated with MDD in the HT group.
  • The study suggests a possible link between thyroiditis and mood disorders.

Takeaway

The study looked at how blood flow in the brain is different in people with depression and thyroid problems, finding some unique patterns.

Methodology

The study used data from two databases and analyzed cerebral perfusion with SPECT imaging in patients with HT and mood disorders.

Potential Biases

The study may be biased due to the small sample size and the presence of confounding conditions like coeliac disease.

Limitations

The small sample size and lack of a control group for MDD without other health conditions limit the findings.

Participant Demographics

The sample included 54 subjects, with 32 having HT (29 women, mean age 38.8) and 22 without HT (19 women, mean age 36.5).

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.05

Confidence Interval

3.0 - 3.8

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-244X-11-148

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