EEG microstates as an important marker of depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

This study conducts a literature search through databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, CNKI (China National Knowledge Infrastructure), and the Cochrane Library to collect case-control studies on microstates in patients with depression. Conducting bias risk assessment using Review Manager 5.4, and meta-analysis is performed using Stata 18.0 and Stata 14.0 software. This study has been registered with Prospero, CRD42024543793. Our research results suggest that the increased duration and frequency of microstate A may serve as a potential biomarker for depression. An increase parameter in microstate B is also observed when individuals experience anxiety. The duration and coverage of microstate C are closely related to rumination levels. Abnormalities in microstate D among some patients with depression may indicate the presence of comorbid conditions such as overlapping mental disorders or attention and executive function deficits. This study provides important insights into identifying the symptoms and etiology of depression by examining differences in microstates between patients with depression and healthy individuals.