Using brain stimulation to improve visual processing in body dysmorphic disorder
Exogenous Modulation of Visual Perception and Connectivity in Body Dysmorphic Disorder (EMPAC-BDD)
This study is testing whether a type of brain stimulation can help adults with body dysmorphic disorder see their own faces more clearly.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 40 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Toronto, Ontario) |
| Trial ID | NCT05607121 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to explore the effects of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) on visual processing in adults with body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) symptoms. Participants will receive either intermittent or continuous TMS targeting parietal brain regions, followed by fMRI scans while viewing images of their faces. The study will assess how these stimulation techniques influence brain connectivity and visual perception. By understanding these effects, the research seeks to identify potential new interventions for BDD.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-40 who meet the DSM-5 criteria for body dysmorphic disorder or have subclinical symptoms, with specific concerns about their facial appearance.
Not a fit: Patients with concurrent major Axis I disorders, aside from common anxiety or depressive disorders, may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to innovative treatment options that improve visual perception and reduce the distress associated with body dysmorphic disorder.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically on TMS for BDD, previous studies have shown promise in modifying visual processing in related conditions, suggesting potential for success.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Body dysmorphic disorder: Inclusion: * males or females * ages 18-40 * meet Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5) criteria for Body Dysmorphic Disorder * have a Body Dysmorphic Disorder version of the Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Scale (BDD-YBOCS) score of ≥20 * primary appearance concerns of the face or head area * medication naïve or medication free for at least 8 weeks prior to enrollment Subclinical body dysmorphic disorder: * males or females * ages 18-40 * have a score on the Dysmorphic Concern Questionnaire of ≥8 (1 standard deviation \[STD\] above population norms) * primary appearance concerns of the face or head area * medication naïve or medication free for at least 8 weeks prior to enrollment Exclusion Criteria: Body dysmorphic disorder: * concurrent major Axis I disorders including substance use disorders, aside from anxiety disorders or depressive disorders as these comorbidities are very common and the sample would otherwise be non-representative; however, BDD must be the primary diagnosis. * lifetime: bipolar disorder or psychotic disorder * psychotropic medications, aside from a short half-life sedative/hypnotic for insomnia, or a short half-life benzodiazepine as needed for anxiety but not exceeding a frequency of 3 doses in one week and not to be taken on the days of the training or MRI scan * current cognitive-behavioral therapy Subclinical body dysmorphic disorder: Exclusion: * meet full DSM-5 criteria for body dysmorphic disorder * current Axis I disorders including substance use disorders * lifetime: bipolar disorder or psychotic disorder * psychotropic medications, aside from a short half-life sedative/hypnotic for insomnia, or a short half-life benzodiazepine as needed for anxiety but not exceeding a frequency of 3 doses in one week and not to be taken on the days of the training or MRI scan * current cognitive-behavioral therapy Exclusion criteria for all participants: * Neurological disorder * Pregnancy * Current major medical disorders that may affect cerebral metabolism such as diabetes or thyroid disorders * Current risk of suicide with a plan and intent * Ferromagnetic metal implantations or devices (electronic implants or devices, infusion pumps, aneurysm clips, metal fragments or foreign bodies, metal prostheses, joints, rods or plates) * Visual acuity worse than 20/35 for each eye as determined by Snellen close vision acuity chart (vision will be tested with corrective lenses if participant uses them).
Where this trial is running
Toronto, Ontario
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health — Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Jamie D Feusner, M.D. — Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
- Study coordinator: Research Analyst
- Email: bdd.empac@camh.ca
- Phone: 4165358501
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.