Connectivity-Guided EEG Biofeedback for Autism Spectrum Disorder: Evidence of Neurophysiological Changes

Abstract

Recent studies have linked neural coherence deficits with impairments associated with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).  The current study tested the hypothesis that lowering neural hyperconnectivity would lead to decreases in autistic symptoms.  Subjects underwent connectivity-guided EEG biofeedback, which has been previously found to enhance neuropsychological functioning and to lessen autistic symptoms.  Significant reductions in neural coherence across frontotemporal regions and source localized power changes were evident in frontal, temporal, and limbic regions following this treatment.  Concurrently, there were significant improvements on objective neuropsychological tests and parents reported positive gains (decreases in symptoms) following the treatment.  These findings further validate EEG biofeedback as a therapeutic modality for autistic children and suggest that changes in coherence anomalies may be related to the mechanism of action.