Brain Activity and Inflammation in Older Adults with Major Depression or Bipolar Disorder Undergoing Electroconvulsive Therapy

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to explore the neurophysiological and inflammatory changes linked to electroconvulsive therapy ECT in older adults diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder or Bipolar Disorder experiencing a major depressive episode. The study focuses on analyzing brain activity through EEG microstate analysis and inflammatory biomarkers to understand how these factors relate to clinical improvement after ECT. It also includes healthy controls for comparison to better understand the effects in the older population. The investigation contributes to understanding depressions brain network changes and aims to support personalized treatment strategies. Participants will undergo ECT using the Thymatron System IV device under general anesthesia, following standard clinical procedures with bilateral electrode placement or right unilateral if side effects occur. The treatment duration, number of sessions, and stimulation settings will be tailored to each patients needs. Resting-state EEG recordings and blood samples will be collected at three points within one week before starting ECT, two weeks after finishing ECT, and two months after treatment ends. Healthy controls will have one EEG recording and blood sample collection for comparison. Participants will be assessed using various depression and anxiety rating scales before, during, and after ECT. EEG microstate parameters such as duration, frequency, coverage, and transition probability will be measured. Blood analyses will include complete blood count and inflammatory markers like interleukins, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, C-reactive protein, and inflammatory ratios. Statistical analyses will examine relationships between biomarker changes, EEG findings, and clinical outcomes. The study is observational and expects to enroll patients aged 55 years or older who are clinically indicated for ECT, with participation lasting through the treatment and follow-up periods.

EEG Microstate and Neuroinflammatory Biomarkers in Older Age Patients With Major Depressive Disorder Receiving ECT