PEDIATRIC OCD NEUROIMAGING

Our lab is currently conducting a study using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) to measure irregularities in neurochemical compounds in pediatric OCD patients (ages 10 to 17). Regions of interest include the head of the caudate nucleus and the orbital frontal cortex. We are comparing neurochemicals indicators of neuronal health and brain activity in children with OCD and non-anxious children. In addition, we are measuring the effects of cognitive-behavioral therapy on these neurochemicals. This study is supported by a grant from the Obsessive-Compulsive Foundation.