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Reduced microstructural white matter integrity is associated with the severity of physical symptoms in functional neurological disorder

Nicolas Gninenko, Eliane Müller, and Selma Aybek

NeuroImage: Clinical (2025)

  • Clinical Study, Research Translation

Key Takeaways

  • Changes in brain structure may contribute to physical symptoms in FND.
  • Reduced white matter integrity was linked to symptom severity.
  • Depression and anxiety may affect brain changes seen in FND.
  • Understanding these changes could improve symptom management.
  • Further research is needed for identifying specific brain changes in FND.

Overview

This summary examines how brain structure changes relate to physical symptoms in Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). Researchers studied 85 patients with mixed symptoms of FND and 75 healthy individuals to understand these brain changes and their connections to symptom severity.

Discussion

Researchers used advanced imaging techniques to compare brain structures between FND patients and healthy controls. 

  • Participants: 85 FND patients and 75 healthy controls.
  • Methods: Diffusion-weighted imaging assessed brain white matter integrity.
  • Findings:
    • FND patients had widespread reduced white matter integrity.
    • Symptom severity was related to lower integrity, especially in regions related to emotion and body awareness.
    • After adjusting for anxiety and depression, differences were less pronounced.

Limitations include potential effects of co-occurring mood disorders and medication.

Next Steps

If you have FND, here are some actions to consider:

  • Discuss with your provider the potential role of brain structure in symptoms.
  • Explore treatments targeting depression and anxiety that may influence FND symptoms.
  • Keep a symptom diary to track any changes related to treatments.
  • Engage with FND communities to share experiences and find support.
  • Stay hopeful as research advances in understanding FND’s neurological basis.

Reference

Gninenko, N., Müller, E., Aybek, S. Reduced microstructural white matter integrity is associated with the severity of physical symptoms in functional neurological disorder. NeuroImage: Clinical. 2025;46:103791. doi:10.1016/j.nicl.2025.103791.  

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nicl.2025.103791

This summary is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, financial, or legal advice. It is not intended to replace professional consultation or treatment. Always consult qualified healthcare providers regarding your specific circumstances, symptoms, or questions.

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