Hyperbaric oxygen treatment in autism spectrum disorders

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Pediatrics
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with physiological abnormalities like cerebral hypoperfusion and inflammation.
• Hyperbaric oxygen treatment (HBOT) is traditionally used for conditions like decompression sickness and wound healing.
• Investigational use of HBOT for ASD targets potential amelioration of these physiological abnormalities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing studies on the efficacy of HBOT in children with ASD.
• To assess the impact of HBOT on physiological and behavioral outcomes in ASD.
• To identify limitations and suggest future research directions.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of studies examining HBOT in children with ASD.
• Analysis of reported changes in cerebral perfusion, inflammation, oxidative stress, and behavior.
• Comparison of results based on HBOT frequency and study design.

Main Results:

• Studies reported improvements in cerebral perfusion and decreased inflammation markers in children with ASD undergoing HBOT.
• Behavioral improvements were noted in several domains, though many studies lacked control groups.
• HBOT was generally well-tolerated with minimal adverse effects.
• Higher HBOT frequencies (10 sessions/week) correlated with more significant improvements.

Conclusions:

• HBOT may offer benefits for certain physiological and behavioral aspects of ASD.
• Inconsistent findings are attributed to study limitations, varied outcome measures, and potential subgroup responses.
• Further controlled studies measuring physiological changes are recommended to define HBOT's role in ASD treatment.