Normative cortical activation patterns in children distinguishing one or two tactile sensory inputs points: An functional MRI study

Abstract

This study aims to determine if children follow the same cortical activation patterns as adults when responding to two-point discrimination sensory stimuli during functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). We recruited 15 children with typical development, aged between 8 and 16 years. These participants were asked to complete a two-point discrimination test (task block) while undergoing an fMRI scan. In the two-point stimulus test, strong activation compared to baseline was observed in the left and right frontal orbital cortex. The inferior parietal lobe also exhibited activity, particularly on the right side, with activation in both the supramarginal and angular gyri. Further activity was evident in the left supramarginal gyrus and the left paracingulate gyrus. This novel study on fMRI two-point discrimination testing in children shows the activation patterns in key brain regions involved in somatosensory discrimination and decision making.

Practical Applications

This study provides crucial normative data on cortical activation patterns during two-point discrimination testing in typically developing children. Such data serve as a valuable reference point for future research investigating sensory processing and cognitive function in pediatric populations. Researchers can use these findings to establish benchmarks and compare cortical activation patterns in children with neurodevelopmental conditions. This information is essential for exploring pathology, which may affect tactile sensation techniques and developing targeted interventions tailored to individual needs in pediatric treatment. Additionally, it lays the groundwork for further exploration into the neural mechanisms underpinning somatosensory discrimination, potentially leading to advancements in understanding and treating sensory-related disorders in children.