Overview
The goal of this basic experimental study involving humans (BESH) protocol is to improve the understanding of neural mechanisms underlying visual hallucinations in Lewy Body diseases to inform future treatment developments.
Description
Visual hallucinations are highly prevalent in Lewy Body Diseases (LBD), a prominent group of neurodegenerative disorders that includes Dementia with Lewy Bodies, Parkinson's disease, and Parkinson's disease dementia. Currently, scientists do not fully understand how the brain creates these false visual images. This lack of knowledge makes it difficult to develop effective treatments.
This study aims to understand the neural mechanisms that give rise to these hallucinatory experiences. The study will include three groups of volunteers:
- LBD patients who experience visual hallucinations
- LBD patients who do not have visual hallucinations
- age-matched volunteers without a significant neurological history
During the study, participants will undergo safe, non-invasive brain imaging scans. While being scanned, they will either rest or complete visual computer tasks.
The results of this study will help map the brain networks responsible for visual hallucinations. These insights will help researchers develop better, targeted interventions for this disabling symptom.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
I) LBD Patients with or without visual hallucinations
- 18 - 90 yrs
- Fluent in English or Spanish
- Score at least 24 out of 30 on the MoCA
- Diagnosed with Lewy Body diseases, including Parkinson's disease and Lewy Body dementias (Parkinson's disease dementia and dementia with Lewy bodies)
II) Age-matched controls (healthy volunteers)
- 18 - 90 yrs
- Fluent in English or Spanish
- Score at least 26 out of 30 on the MoCA
Exclusion Criteria:
I) LBD Patients with or without visual hallucinations
- History of traumatic brain injury or significant head trauma
- History of significant neurologic disorders other than Lewy body diseases
- Meets DSM-IV criteria for substance abuse or dependence
- For MRI studies, any contraindication to MRI as determined by the MRI Safety Screening Form
II) Age-matched controls (healthy volunteers)
- History of traumatic brain injury or significant head trauma
- History of significant neurologic disorders other than Lewy body diseases
- Meets DSM-IV criteria for substance abuse or dependence
- For MRI studies, any contraindication to MRI as determined by the MRI Safety Screening Form
