Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation [UPSC Notes]

According to research, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has the potential to reverse brain alterations and offer quick relief to patients with severe depression who have not responded to conventional therapy. In this article, you can read more about Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and its applications for the IAS exam science and technology segment.

Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) Therapy

Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) therapy is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique that uses electromagnetic fields to generate electrical impulses in specific regions of the brain that are known to modulate moods. 

Working of rTMS:

• rTMS works by generating electromagnetic pulses through a coil placed on the scalp, which modulates the cortical activity of the brain.
• The mechanism of action for rTMS involves increasing neuronal activity and changing the strength of connections between different brain areas. The electromagnetic pulses create electrical currents in the brain tissue and affect the membrane potential of brain cells.

Applications of rTMS

• According to studies, rTMS may treat depression by correcting aberrant signalling patterns between different parts of the brain. Additionally, it has been proven useful in easing the symptoms of a number of neuropsychiatric illnesses.
• Additionally, rTMS was given the thumbs-up by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2008 as a treatment for clinical depression.
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and refractory OCD have both been studied as prospective candidates for rTMS treatment.

Does TMS have adverse effects?

• Rarely, rTMS may induce seizures in at-risk patients, for example, those with a family history of epilepsy. Fast rTMS may pose a higher risk of seizures compared to slow rTMS. However, current safety protocols have also greatly reduced the likelihood of seizures.
• Minor side effects are more common, including muscle tension headaches. To prevent short-term changes in hearing threshold as a result of the noise generated by the equipment, earplugs are recommended during the session.

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