Can a simple EEG replace costly MRI scans for anorexia research?
NCT ID NCT04583774
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026
Summary
This study explores whether electroencephalography (EEG), a cheaper and more accessible brain monitoring technique, can reliably measure how the brain processes rewards in adolescents with anorexia nervosa. Researchers will compare EEG results with those from functional MRI (fMRI) in 47 girls aged 11-17. If EEG works, it could enable larger studies to understand and eventually treat anorexia more effectively.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
What this could lead to
If successful, this could make it easier and cheaper to study brain reward processing in anorexia nervosa, potentially leading to better treatments.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early feasibility study with only 47 participants. It is not testing a treatment, so it may not directly help patients. The EEG method may not work as well as hoped.
Disclaimer
Read more
Show less
This is a summary of
the original study
.
Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
Get updates
Get notified about this study
Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for ANOREXIA NERVOSA are added.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Show contact details
Enter your email to view the contact information for this study.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Locations
-
University of California San Diego
San Diego, California, 92121, United States