Structural brain abnormalities in major depressive disorder: A selective review of recent MRI studies

Abstract

Background: While there is evidence to suggest that major depressive disorder (MDD) is associated with structural brain abnormalities, the precise nature of these abnormalities remains unclear. Aims: To review recent structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) research findings in MDD while considering the potential influence of key clinical and demographic variables. Method: A selective review of all T1-weighted structural MRI studies published between 2000 and 2007 in adult samples of MDD patients. Results: Volumetric reductions of the hippocampus, basal ganglia and OFC and SGPFC are consistently found in MDD patients, with more persistent forms of MDD (e.g., multiple episodes or repeated ..