Brain networks in eating disorders: a systematic review of graph theory studies

Purpose Recent evidence from neuroimaging research has shown that eating disorders (EDs) are characterized by alterations in interconnected neural systems, whose characteristics can be usefully described by connectomics tools. The present paper aimed to review the neuroimaging literature in EDs employing connectomic tools, and, specifically, graph theory analysis. Methods A systematic review of the literature was conducted to identify studies employing graph theory analysis on patients with eating disorders published before the 22nd of June 2020. Results Twelve studies were included in the systematic review. Ten of them address anorexia nervosa (AN) (AN = 199; acute AN = 85, weight recovered AN with acute diagnosis = 24; fully recovered AN = 90). The remaining two articles address patients with bulimia nervosa (BN) (BN = 48). Global and regional unbalance in segregation and integration properties were described in both disorders. Discussion The literature concerning the use of connectomics tools in EDs evidenced the presence of alterations in the topological characteristics of brain networks at a global and at a regional level. Changes in local characteristics involve areas that have been demonstrated to be crucial in the neurobiology and pathophysiology of EDs. Regional imbalances in network properties seem to reflect on global patterns.

Automated summary

This study reviewed the literature on neuroimaging in eating disorders using connectomics tools, finding alterations in the topological characteristics of brain networks at both global and regional levels, with implications for the pathophysiology of eating disorders.