Self-modulation of Prefrontal Alpha Asymmetry:Novel Neurofeedback Treatment of Affective Instability in Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder(PMDD)

Epidemiological and clinical studies consistently show that approximately 2-8% of all premenopausal women suffer from premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) - a serious pattern of distressing symptoms beginning at the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle and terminating shortly after the onset of menses. The most common psychological symptoms reported by women with PMDD are mood lability and irritability, and to a lesser extent a depressed mood or diminished interest and pleasure. In contrast to the milder premenstrual syndrome (PMS), PMDD is a severe mental disorder which can in some cases even trigger suicidal thoughts and attempts. Sadly, many women do not respond to currently available pharmacological treatments, while others suffer from their side effects throughout the month.

The proposed study aims to examine the clinical effectiveness of a novel therapeutic approach for treating emotional instability in PMDD. The investigators plan to use a clinical model of weekly brain-guided training (i.e. NeuroFeedBack, NF) to gain better self control of affect and its regulation. Feedback will be based on modulating pre-frontal EEG Alpha waves, a technique shown in prior studies to have a therapeutic effect in affective symptoms; however the brain circuitry which underlies such effects is largely unknown. By using simultaneous fMRI and EEG the investigators intend to unveil the neural correlates of response to such treatment and to provide new markers for clinical trajectory in PMDD.

Prospectively diagnosed PMDD women will be randomly assigned to either a real or sham EEG-NF protocol. During the training, patients will be instructed to "Think Positively" in order to actively manipulate brain areas that are related to positive experiences, while viewing a stream of various faces with different expressions. Following each facial image, feedback based on the alpha asymmetry score will be given to the patient regarding their ability to generate positive thoughts during the stream of faces. However, only the women within study group will receive accurate feedback. To obtain a neural and hormonal profile, patients will undergo simultaneous EEG-fMRI testing before and after training, and blood samples of hormone levels will be gathered. Comprehensive psychiatric and psychological assessment will be performed as an outcome measure.

The investigators hypothesize that the NF protocol will enhance affective stability, thus improving daily functioning and quality of life among PMDD patients, without the need for pharmacological agents, intrusive techniques or time consuming interventions. Moreover, this treatment method is individually tailored to the needs and symptoms of the patient and can be used periodically rather than continuously. The patient remains in control throughout the procedure, and can potentially learn to use this technique on a continuous basis, beyond the scope of the clinical trial.