Early detection of psychiatric disorders using neurophysiological methods

An Integrated Neurophysiological Approach Toward the Early Detection of Psychiatric Disorders

Observational IRCCS Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli · NCT06886945

This study is trying to see if special tests on how people process sounds and sights can help find early signs of schizophrenia in individuals who may be at risk.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment75 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 50 Years
SexAll
SponsorIRCCS Centro San Giovanni di Dio Fatebenefratelli Academic / other
Locations1 site (Brescia, BS)
Trial IDNCT06886945 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the early detection of schizophrenia and related disorders by examining sensory and perceptual processing in individuals with schizotypal traits and those diagnosed with schizophrenia. Participants will complete audio-visual perceptual tasks, specifically a modified version of the Sound-Induced Flash Illusion, to assess their multisensory integration capabilities. The research aims to identify potential biomarkers for early intervention in psychosis-prone individuals, addressing a significant gap in current clinical practices. By understanding the neurophysiological underpinnings of these disorders, the study seeks to improve risk mitigation strategies for at-risk populations.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals with a clinical diagnosis of schizophrenia spectrum disorder and those exhibiting high schizotypal traits.

Not a fit: Patients with major physical illnesses, drug dependency, or other major psychiatric disorders may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to earlier identification and intervention for individuals at risk of developing schizophrenia.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using neurophysiological methods for early detection is promising, it remains largely novel and untested in this specific context.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria (all participants):

* Normal hearing
* Normal or corrected-to-normal vision

Inclusion Criteria (patients):

* Clinical diagnosis of schizophrenia spectrum disorder (according to DSM-5)
* IQ \> 70

Exclusion Criteria (all participants):

* Anamnesis or evidence of any central nervous system alteration

Exclusion Criteria (patients)

* Current major physical illness
* Drug dependency/abuse over the last 6 months
* Unstable pharmacological therapy
* Comorbidities with other major psychiatric disorders

Where this trial is running

Brescia, BS

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Schizophrenia DisordersSchizophreniaAudio-Visual IntegrationTemporal Binding WindowsSignal Detection TheorySchizotypal Personality
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.