Bipolar Disorder Lithium Brain Imaging Study Using Ultra-High Field MRI to Predict Treatment Response

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating whether lithium levels in the brain can predict how well people with bipolar disorder respond to lithium treatment. This observational study focuses on adults with bipolar disorder type I or II who have recently started lithium as part of their regular care. The study aims to better understand why responses to lithium vary among individuals by using a new imaging technique. Participants will undergo ultra-high-field lithium magnetic resonance imaging 7 Tesla once they reach stable therapeutic lithium levels in their blood. This advanced imaging method allows detailed measurement of lithium concentrations in various brain regions. The study will follow participants for one year, during which their clinical response to lithium will be evaluated using a validated questionnaire. During the study, brain scans will be done within four weeks after achieving stable lithium blood levels. Researchers will collect data on lithium distribution in the brain and link this to treatment outcomes at 12 months. Participants will provide written consent and be monitored for clinical response. The primary measure is lithium response at one year, with blood lithium levels also recorded at baseline. The study lasts at least 12 months for each participant, allowing detailed observation of treatment effects.

The Bipolar Lithium Imaging Scan Study.