The insula-claustrum region and delusions in schizophrenia

Abstract

Objective: We examined the relationship between cerebral gray matter (GM) volume and severity of delusions and hallucinations in adults with schizophrenia.

Method: MRI scans in 43 patients with schizophrenia were acquired. Correlations were computed between GM volume and clinician ratings of hallucinations and delusions.

Results: The analysis revealed significant inverse correlations between ratings of the severity of delusions and volumes of the left claustrum and right insula. Significant correlations were not observed between cerebral GM volume and ratings of hallucinations.

Conclusion: The insula/claustrum region may be critical to the experience of delusions and more careful scrutiny of the claustrum in relation to schizophrenia appears warranted.