The purpose of this study is to understand how the blood brain barrier differs between individuals who have experienced psychosis for the first time, and healthy controls. The blood brain barrier, or BBB, is the interface between your peripheral nervous system ("your body") and your central nervous system ("your brain"). We would like to explore whether there is a link between first episode psychosis and BBB permeability, and how this may change over the course of treatment.
Eligibility Criteria
We are looking for participants who:
- Are 18-40 years old
- Started antipsychotic medications less than 5 years ago
- Have been diagnosed with schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, schizophreniform disorder, delusional disorder, psychotic disorder NOS, or non-organic psychosis.
AND Healthy Controls
What does the study involve?
- Number of contacts: 1-3 in person
- Compensation offered? Yes
Investigator(s): Dr. Margaret Hahn
Full Study Title: Is Increased Blood Brain Barrier (BBB) Permeability A Feature of First Episode Psychosis?
Contact Information:
E-mail: Kristoffer.Panganiban@camh.ca
REB number: 062-2022
REB Approval Expiry Date: October 21, 2026
PLEASE NOTE:
- Research staff cannot give medical advice over the phone or via email.
- If you have specific questions regarding your health care, please contact your family physician.
- We regret that not everyone screened for a study will be eligible to participate
- For more information about other treatment options for mental illness or addiction offered by CAMH, visit www.camh.ca or call 416-535-8501.