Neurofeedback in autism spectrum disorders.

Abstract

AIM:

To review current studies on the effectiveness of neurofeedback as a method of treatment of the core symptoms of autism spectrum disorders (ASD).

METHOD:

Studies were selected based on searches in PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, ERIC, and CINAHL using combinations of the following keywords: 'Neurofeedback' OR 'EEG Biofeedback' OR 'Neurotherapy' OR 'Mu-Rhythm' OR 'SMR' AND 'Autism' OR 'Autism Spectrum Disorder' OR 'Pervasive Developmental Disorder'.

RESULTS:

The existing evidence does not support the use of neurofeedback in the treatment of ASD. Studies with outcomes in favour of neurofeedback might be showing an improvement in comorbid attention-deficit-hyperactivity disorder symptoms rather than a true improvement in core ASD symptoms.

INTERPRETATION:

Limitations of this review are those inherent in the studies available, including small sample size, short duration, variable diagnostic criteria, and insufficient control interventions, all causing a lack of generalizability.

• Authors: Martin Holtmann, Sabina Steiner, Sarah Hohmann, Luise Poustka, Tobias Banaschewski, Sven Bölte
• Journal: Developmental medicine and child neurology (Dev Med Child Neurol) Vol. 53 Issue 11 Pg. 986-93 (Nov 2011) ISSN: 1469-8749 [Electronic] England
• PMID: 21752020 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)
• Copyright: © The Authors. Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology © 2011 Mac Keith Press.

Topics

• Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity (rehabilitation)
• Child
• Child Development Disorders, Pervasive (rehabilitation)
• Child, Preschool
• Databases, Factual (statistics & numerical data)
• Humans
• Neurofeedback (methods)