Summary of Study
The study, “Hyperbaric treatment for children with autism: a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, controlled trial,” assessed the efficacy of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) in children with autism. Sixty-two participants, aged 2 to 7, were divided into a treatment group receiving 1.3 atm and 24% oxygen, and a control group receiving slightly pressurized room air (1.03 atm and 21% oxygen). Both groups underwent 40 one-hour sessions over four weeks in hyperbaric chambers. The study’s primary objective was to measure improvements in autism symptoms through the Clinical Global Impression (CGI) scale, Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC), and Autism Treatment Evaluation Checklist (ATEC).
Methodology
Participants were recruited from six U.S. centers and randomized into treatment and control groups. Eligibility criteria included a diagnosis of autism per DSM-IV and absence of prior HBOT exposure. Each session lasted one hour, with treatment group sessions delivering higher oxygen and pressure levels. Blinding was ensured through identical chamber setups and procedures, simulating hyperbaric conditions for the control group. Outcome measures were assessed by parents and physicians before and after the treatment period.
Results
Significant improvements were observed in the treatment group compared to controls. Physician-rated CGI scores showed enhanced overall functioning (p = 0.0008), receptive language (p < 0.0001), and social interaction (p = 0.0473). Parental ratings mirrored these findings, with notable gains in eye contact (p = 0.0322) and receptive language (p = 0.0168). The ABC and ATEC scales revealed significant reductions in irritability, hyperactivity, and sensory/cognitive awareness in the treatment group. Adverse events were minimal, with both groups demonstrating high tolerance for the therapy.
Conclusion
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy at 1.3 atm and 24% oxygen resulted in measurable improvements in core autism symptoms, including social interaction and communication. The therapy was safe and well-tolerated, offering promise as an adjunct treatment for autism. Further research is recommended to validate these findings and explore long-term outcomes.
Source: Hyperbaric treatment for children with autism: a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, controlled trial | Daniel A. Rossignol, Lanier W. Rossignol, Scott Smith, Cindy Schneider, Sally Logerquist, Anju Usman, Jim Neubrander, Eric M. Madren, Gregg Hintz, Barry Grushkin, Elizabeth A. Mumper | BMC Pediatrics 2009, 9:21 | DOI: 10.1186/1471-2431-9-21 | Download: Rossignol BMC 60pt Autism Study