Development and Validation of an fMRI Pain Metric for MS
Abstract
Background and Significance. Pain is common in multiple sclerosis (MS) but is currently under-recognized and under-treated due in part to the absence of adequate metrics. The specific aims of this study are: (1) To create an fMRI pain metric designed specifically for individuals with MS that uses the minimum level of somatosensory stimulation necessary to elicit increased activation of thalamus, cingulate, insula, and sensorimotor cortex ( augmented central pain processing ) in MS patients compared to controls, and (2) To determine the relationship between augmented central pain processing, as measured using fMRI, to self- and clinician-administered pain measures and to thalamic volume loss in the patient group. Participants will include patients with relapsing-remitting MS, diagnosed according to standard criteria at our MS Center, and demographically matched healthy controls. To date, we have developed, implemented, and tested the fMRI stimulation paradigm for this metric, and have started screening and scanning participants. We were granted an Extension Without Funds of one year to complete the research. Results will be available when we have accrued the complete participant sample (in Months 10-12 of the extension period).
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2011
- Accession Number
- ADA561913
Entities
People
- Heather Wishart
Organizations
- Dartmouth College