Neuroimaging findings in US government personnel and their family members involved in anomalous health incidents

Abstract

Overview

This exploratory study, conducted at the NIH facilities, assessed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to detect potential brain lesions in US government personnel experiencing anomalous health incidents (AHIs) compared to well-matched controls.

Objectives and Design

• Objective: To determine the presence of MRI-detectable brain lesions.
• Design: The study included clinical, volumetric, and functional MRI assessments performed between June 2018 and November 2022 at the NIH Clinical Center and MRI Research Facility.

Participants and Methods

Participants included 81 US government personnel with AHIs and 48 matched controls, with imaging and follow-up sessions tailored for high reproducibility.

Main Outcomes

Outcomes were measured using quantitative MRI metrics, including volumetric, diffusion MRI–derived metrics, and functional MRI connectivity. Results indicated no significant between-group differences after statistical adjustments for various comparisons.

Conclusions

The study found no significant MRI-detectable evidence of brain injury in participants who experienced AHIs compared to the control group. This provides implications for future research and clinical care interventions.