A guide to the measurement and interpretation of fMRI test-retest reliability

The test-retest reliability of functional neuroimaging data has recently been a topic of much discussion. Despite early conflicting reports, converging reports now suggest that test retest reliability is poor for standard univariate measures - namely, voxel-based and region-level task-based activation and edge-level functional connectivity. To better understand the implications of these recent studies requires understanding the nuances of test-retest reliability as commonly measured by the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Here we provide a guide to the measurement and interpretation of test-retest reliability in functional neuroimaging and review major findings in the literature. We highlight the importance of making choices that improve reliability so long as they do not diminish validity, pointing to the potential of multivariate approaches that improve both. Finally, we discuss the implications of recent reports of low test retest reliability in the context of ongoing work in the field.

Automated summary

Recent discussions on the test-retest reliability of functional neuroimaging data indicate that standard univariate measures have poor reliability, emphasizing the need for more effective multivariate approaches to improve reliability. It is important to consider choices that improve reliability without compromising validity.