Neurological Validation of ASD Diagnostic Criteria Using Frontal Alpha and Theta Asymmetry

Title
Neurological Validation of ASD Diagnostic Criteria Using Frontal Alpha and Theta Asymmetry
Publication Date
2024
Author(s)
Bitsika, Vicki
( author )
OrcID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2518-6684
Email: vbitsik2@une.edu.au
UNE Id une-id:vbitsik2
Sharpley, Christopher
( author )
OrcID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7922-4848
Email: csharpl3@une.edu.au
UNE Id une-id:csharpl3
Evans, Ian
( author )
OrcID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2231-3134
Email: ievans3@une.edu.au
UNE Id une-id:ievans3
Vessey, Kirstan A
( author )
OrcID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1031-1964
Email: kvessey@une.edu.au
UNE Id une-id:kvessey
Type of document
Journal Article
Language
en
Entity Type
Publication
Publisher
MDPI AG
Place of publication
Switzerland
DOI
10.3390/jcm13164876
UNE publication id
une:1959.11/62322
Abstract

Background/Objectives: Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) relies on the observation of difficulties in social communication and interaction, plus the presence of repetitive and restrictive behaviors. The identification of neurological correlates of these symptoms remains a high priority for clinical research, and has the potential to increase the validity of diagnosis of ASD as well as provide greater understanding of how the autistic brain functions. This study focused on two neurological phenomena that have been previously associated with psychiatric disorders (alphaand theta-wave asymmetry across the frontal region of the brain), and tested for their association with the major diagnostic criteria for ASD. Methods: A total of 41 male autistic youth underwent assessment with the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) and 3 min of eyes-closed resting EEG to collect alpha- and theta-wave data from right and left frontal brain sites. Results: Different associations were found for theta versus alpha asymmetry and the ADOS-2 subscales, across different brain regions responsible for a varying range of cognitive functions. In general, theta asymmetry was associated with conversation with others, sharing of enjoyment, and making social overtures, whereas alpha asymmetry was linked with making eye contact, reporting events to others, and engaging in reciprocal social communication. Specific brain regions involved are identified, as well as implications for clinical practice. Conclusions: Specific autism symptoms may be associated with selected brain region activity, providing a neurological basis for diagnosis and treatment.

Link
Citation
Journal of Clinical Medicine, v.13, p. 1-14
ISSN
2077-0383
Start page
1
End page
14
Rights
Attribution 4.0 International

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