Η επίδραση του υπερβαρικού οξυγόνου σε παιδιά με αυτισμό

Abstract

Introduction: Autism is a pervasive developmental disorder spectrum that affects 1 in 166 children. Recent studies have shown the increasing use of hyperbaric oxygen as an alternative treatment of autism in terms of social interaction, eye contact, etc. The scientific community and the parents of autistic children are seeking the best treatment for them in order to improve their symptoms and offer them a better social life. Purpose: The purpose of this systematic review is to investigate the effect of hyperbaric oxygen on children with autism. Specifically, the objectives of the study are: identification of possible improvements in autistic children with the use of hyperbaric oxygen as well as of identify specific areas to be improved with the use of hyperbaric oxygen. Methodology: This is the study of systematic review. The bibliography was found in the electronic databases PubMed, EBSCO and Google Scholar. The research took place from late October 2011 to end of December 2011. To find articles about this study , keywords such as "Autism", "Autistic Disorder", "Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy", "Autistic Children" and "Nurse" must be used. Results: It is found that most studies have shown positive results in improving the language, social interaction, eye contact, activity levels etc. Other investigations have shown negative results and side effects caused by hyperbaric oxygen in children with autism. Conclusions: The efficacy of hyperbaric oxygen in children with autism has both positive and negative effects. In short, the available results have been controversial. Before conducting new researches ,analysis of existing studies must be carried out in order to draw overall conclusions that will address all the existing studies. This will help new studies to be designed and it may be possible to answer questions that have not been answered so far.