Examining cortisol and brain structure in anorexia nervosa
Cortisol Level and Associations to Depression, Anxiety, Disease Severity and Hippocampal and Insula Volume in Anorexia Nervosa.
Odense University Hospital · NCT05931549
This study looks at how stress hormones and brain structure are connected in people with anorexia nervosa to better understand the effects of stress and starvation on their condition.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 80 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 50 Years |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | Odense University Hospital (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Odense) |
| Trial ID | NCT05931549 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study investigates the relationship between cortisol levels and various psychological factors, such as depression and anxiety, as well as the volume of specific brain regions (hippocampus and insula) in individuals with anorexia nervosa. The research aims to understand how stress and starvation affect the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and contribute to the severity of anorexia nervosa. By analyzing these associations, the study seeks to provide insights into the neurobiological underpinnings of the disorder and its impact on cognitive functions.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are women diagnosed with anorexia nervosa who have a BMI of less than 16.
Not a fit: Patients currently undergoing treatment with glucocorticoids or those with unstable acute somatic comorbidities may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and treatment strategies for anorexia nervosa.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been limited neuroimaging studies in anorexia nervosa, the associations between cortisol and psychological factors have been observed in other mental health disorders, suggesting potential for success.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Women who fulfill the criteria for AN according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), version 5 (APA, 2013). 2. BMI \< 16. Exclusion Criteria: 1. Current treatment with glucocorticoids. 2. Current use of oral contraceptives. 3. Unstable acute somatic comorbidity, e.g., infection. 4. Any kind of metal prostheses or -implants.
Where this trial is running
Odense
- Odense University Hospital — Odense, Denmark (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: René K Støving, PhD — Odense University Hospital
- Study coordinator: René K Støving, PhD
- Email: rene.stoeving@rsyd.dk
- Phone: 65411710
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Anorexia Nervosa, Stress, anorexia nervosa, Cortisol, Insula, Hippocampus