Serial Comparisons of Abdominal and Neurological MRI Scans
Serial Comparisons of Abdominal and Neurological MRI Scans
The purpose of this study is to compare abdominal weight gain and fat distribution to changes
 in brain morphology in people taking antipsychotic medications.
Abdominal weight gain is a significant side effect of antipsychotic medications. It has even
 been suggested to be part of the pathology of severe mental illnesses. Studies have shown
 that in persons with bipolar disorder, increased body mass index (BMI) is associated with
 irregular changes in the brain. This association has not been tested in persons with
 psychosis. In this study, we will be measuring abdominal fat distribution as measured by MRI
 to see if this is associated with abnormal brain morphology.
Inclusion Criteria:

 -  Must be admitted to the BC (British Columbia) Psychosis Program at UBC (University of
 British Columbia) Hospital

 -  Must have clinically diagnosed psychosis (e.g. schizophrenia)

 -  Must be fluent in English

 -  Must not be contraindicated for MRI (i.e., must not be claustrophobic, have metal in
 the body, be pregnant, have BMI greater than or equal to 40, etc.)

 Exclusion Criteria:

 • None, other than those listed above