Effect of mild hyperbaric oxygen therapy on children diagnosed with autism

Introduction: Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO2) therapy is emerging internationally as the primary treatment modality for inflammatory pathways related to neurological disorders. Currently, literature concerning its effectiveness in autistic children is limited. Using neurocognitive tests and clinical-diagnostic evaluations, this study evaluates the clinical, cognitive and behavioral effects of HBO2 on children diagnosed with autism. Methods: An experimental HBO2 group (EXP: F = 1; M = 7; mean age: 7 +/- 2.33; years) and a control non-HBO2 group of autistic children (CTRL: F = 2; M= 5; mean age: 6.6 +/- 2.7 years) correctly completed the Aberrant Behavior Checklist-Community (ABC) before HBO2 (T-0), after 40 sessions of HBO2 (T-1), and one month after the end of treatments (T-2). Additionally, the experimental HBO2 group was evaluated with the Childhood Autism Rating Scale at T-0 and T-2. Results: Total ABC score was lower at T-2 (mean +/- SD: 50.38 +/- 18.55; p < 0.001) compared to scores obtained at T-0 (mean +/- SD: 57.5 +/- 19.01). Similarly, in the control group the total ABC score differed statistically (p < 0.05) between T-0 (103.6 +/- 20.38) and (T-2: 59 +/- 25.25). Conclusions: Despite the improvements reported in both groups, our results do not support the utility of HBO2 in children diagnosed with autism.