Quantification of adverse events associated with functional MRI scanning and with real-time fMRI-based training.

Background: Although functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is in widespread research use, the safety of this approach has not been extensively quantitatively evaluated. Real-time fMRI (rtfMRI)-based training paradigms use fMRI neurofeedback and cognitive strategies to alter regional brain activation, and are currently being evaluated as a novel approach to treat neurological and psychiatric conditions.

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to determine the incidence and severity of any adverse events that might be caused by changes in brain activation brought about through fMRI or through rtfMRI-based training paradigms.