Abstract
BackgroundReward-centred models have proposed that anomalies in the basal ganglia circuitry that underlies reward learning and habit formation perpetuate anorexia nervosa (AN). The present study aimed to investigate the volume and shape of key basal ganglia regions, including the bilateral caudate, putamen, nucleus accumbens (NAcc), and globus pallidus in AN. MethodsThe present study combined data from two existing studies resulting in a sample size of 46 women with AN and 56 age-matched healthy comparison (HC) women. Group differences in volume and shape of the regions of interest were examined. Within the AN group, the impact of eating disorder characteristics on volume and shape of the basal ganglia regions were also explored. ResultsThe shape analyses revealed inward deformations in the left caudate, right NAcc, and bilateral ventral and internus globus pallidus, and outward deformations in the right middle and posterior globus pallidus in the AN group. ConclusionsThe present findings appear to fit with the theoretical models suggesting that there are alterations in the basal ganglia regions associated with habit formation and reward processing in AN. Further investigation of structural and functional connectivity of these regions in AN as well as their role in recovery would be of interest.
Highlights
Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a complex eating disorder characterised by severe malnutrition and relentless pursuit of thinness (American Psychiatric Association, 2013)
The aim of the present study was to explore the morphometry of basal ganglia regions including the bilateral caudate, putamen, globus pallidus, and nucleus accumbens (NAcc) in light of the reward-centred model of anorexia nervosa (AN) (O'Hara et al, 2015)
As expected there was a significant difference in body mass index (BMI), Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDEQ) total score, anxiety z-score, and depression z-score such that the AN group had lower BMI and reported more eating disorder symptomatology, anxiety, and depression than the AN M (SD)
Summary
Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a complex eating disorder characterised by severe malnutrition and relentless pursuit of thinness (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Over time the reward motivation associated with weight loss cues increases, and so the associated eating disorder behaviours become compulsive and are repeated despite aversive consequences, such as negative affect, social isolation, and poor physical health. These theoretical models highlight similarities between AN and addiction, both of which are considered to be disorders of compulsivity and share a number of characteristics such as obsessionality and preoccupation (Crane, Roberts, & Treasure, 2007; Fontenelle, Oostermeijer, Harrison, Pantelis, & Yücel, 2011; Lubman, Yücel, & Pantelis, 2004; Serpell, Livingstone, Neiderman, & Lask, 2002). Further investigation of structural and functional connectivity of these regions in AN as well as their role in recovery would be of interest
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