Brain scans could help predict response to psychotherapy for anxiety and depression
Studies show promising initial evidence that specific "neuroimaging markers" might help in predicting the chances of a good response to psychotherapy, or choosing between psychotherapy or medications, in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) and other diagnoses. "While some brain areas have emerged as potential candidate markers, there are still many barriers that preclude their clinical use," comments lead author Dr. Trisha Chakrabarty of University of British Columbia, Vancouver. Evidence of Neuroimaging Markers of Response to Psychotherapy The researchers analyzed previous research evaluating brain imaging scans to predict the outcomes of psychotherapy for major depressive and anxiety disorders. Psychiatrists are interested in identifying brain imaging markers of response to psychotherapy -- comparable to electrocardiograms and laboratory tests used to decide on treatments for myocardial infarction. The review found 40 studies including patients w...