Can a simple EEG replace costly MRI scans for anorexia research?

NCT ID NCT04583774

Ongoing Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of California, San Diego Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Aug 04, 2026 · Updated 2 times

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.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anorexia nervosa

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ANOREXIA NERVOSA

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of California San Diego

San Diego, California, 92121, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.