A longitudinal study investigating sub-threshold symptoms and white matter changes in individuals with an 'at risk mental state' (ARMS)

Abstract

Background: Evidence supports disruption in white matter (WM) connectivity in established schizophrenia, however, it is unclear when these abnormalities occur during the course of illness and if they are progressive. Here we investigated whether WM abnormalities predate illness onset by examining a group of individuals with an 'at risk mental state' (ARMS) and assess whether there is evidence of progressive change. We hypothesized that WM abnormalities are associated with symptom change. Methods: Sixteen healthy controls and 41 ARMS subjects at baseline underwent Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI). Sub-threshold positive symptoms were measured using the Scale of Prodromal Symptoms (SOPS). Imagin..