Comparison of brain volume measurements in methamphetamine use disorder with healthy individuals using volbrain method

Abstract

Aim: This study aims to examine brain structures in individuals with methamphetamine use disorder (MUD) and to understand the possible effects of methamphetamine on these structures. Materials and Methods: The study was retrospectively evaluated in 21 MUD and 21 healthy controls. VolBrain segmentation method was used. Results: Grey Matter (GM), Cortical GM, Cerebrum total, and GM volumes were found to be less and significantly higher in MUD compared to healthy controls (p<0.01). Accumbens, Basal Forebrain, Caudate, Pallidum, Putamen, and Parietal Lobe volumes were increased in MUD (p<0.01). Amygdala, Hippocampus, Ventral Diencephalone, Frontal Lobe, Posterior Orbital Gyrus, Precentral Gyrus, Temporal Lobe, Calcarine Cortex, Middle Occipital Gyrus, Superior Occipital Gyrus, Limbic Cortex volumes were significantly smaller in MUD compared to healthy controls. Conclusion: This study helped us better understand MUD's effects on brain structures. It also provided important information for developing effective strategies for treating and preventing MUD.