Abstract

FERNANDES, Thiago; DIAS, Ana Luiza Alves  and  SANTOS, Natanael Antonio. Transcranial direct current stimulation in autism: a systematic review. Psicol. teor. prat. [online]. 2017, vol.19, n.1, pp. 176-191. ISSN 1516-3687.  http://dx.doi.org/10.5935/1980-6906/psicologia.v19n1p192-207.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by deficits in social interactions, language and communication impairment, and highly restrictive behavioral interests. Due to its complex physiopathology, it is essential to have valid and reliable biomarkers for an effective diagnosis and treatment, aiming at the improvement of the symptomatic. Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS), one of the most widely used forms of non-invasive stimulation, may represent a promising technique with both diagnostic and therapeutic potential. Using the PRISMA methodology, we conducted a review of the contribution and scientific evidence for the use of tDCS in ASD. Out of 43 references, we identified six relevant studies. Preliminary data suggest an improvement in the behavioral and cognitive symptoms of ASD. However, despite the efficacy of tDCS, some methodological divergences were observed among the studies, leading to the need for well-designed and controlled studies to confirm the true potential of tDCS in ASD.

Keywords : non-invasive brain stimulation; transcranial direct current stimulation; autism; autism spectrum disorder; systematic review.

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