Cortical Findings

Research Study

in Multiple Sclerosis

What is the
Cortical Findings Study?

á      The goal of the study is to understand the relationship between changes in brain, particularly in the gray matter,  and cognitive performance (thinking and memory).

á      We will first acquire a set of high-resolution magnetic resonance images (MRI).

á      We will also run a set of cognitive tests that try to measure everyday thought processes.

á       Finally, the cognitive test results will be compared with the MRI to see if the cortical gray matter is affecting performance more than white matter.

How do I participate?

You're welcome to join the study, if

á      you're at least 18 years of age.

á      have been diagnosed with MS.

á      speak English as your first language.

 

You cannot participate, if

á      you are currently pregnant.

á      have a history of brain trauma or neurological disorders other than MS.

á      if you have a pacemaker or surgical implants that would prevent you from having and MRI.

 

What should I expect as a participant in this study?

á      You will undergo an MRI examination that lasts about an hour, but no longer than 1.5 hours.

á      You will undergo a set of cognitive tests that lasts about 2 hours.

á      You would be asked to return yearly, for a repeat of these tests, for a total of 4 years.

á      Your doctor or research nurse will explain the study in further detail.

á      You participation is voluntary both at this point and at anytime in the future.

What are the costs and benefits of enrolling?

á      There will be no cost to you for the MRI and cognitive testing.

á      You will receive monetary compensation for your time spent participating in this research study.

á      Information obtained will help in our understanding of multiple sclerosis.

á      Parking will be paid for during your visits to the MS Center for the study.

Where can a get more information?

á      you will find a more detailed description of this study and more info on our Center on our website at:

cni.bwh.harvard.edu/studies/CorticalLesionsStudy.htm

á      feel free to call or Email our study coordinator:

 

Mrs. Khalima Bolden,

Center for Neurological Imaging,

Brigham & Women's Hospital,

221 Longwood Ave RF394, Boston, MA 02115

Tel: 617-732-8600

Fax: 617-264-5154

Email: kbolden@bwh.harvard.edu