A recent study done in April 2014, published in the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, had some very exciting results and conclusions.
Autism represents a multi-factorial highly prevalent disorder of the developing human neocortex with no clear treatments. Trans-magnetic stimulation with customized frequency has been safe in the treatment of certain frontal lobe behavioral disorders. We hypothesize behavioral improvements in autism behaviors via TMS with customized frequency modulation.
44 patients underwent TMS with customized frequency modulation. Serial EEGs were used to modify frequency delivered using resting alpha frequency combined with resting heart rate. Each child had a verified diagnosis of autism documented by pediatrician and/or psychiatrist as per the DSM IV guidelines prior to TMS.
26 of 44 patients who are now beyond 12 months follow-up (mean 24 months) showed statistically-significant improvement. Most improvements were made in Taste, Smell, and Touch Response and Use (Item IX), Fear and Nervousness (Item X), and Verbal Communication (Item XI).
This study concluded that non-invasive cerebral transmagnetic stimulation using customized frequency is safe at mean 24-month for the treatment of a child with autism behaviors. In those who completed 12 months (n=44), CARS was improved in 59.1% of cases. This improvement may reflect potentiation by TMS coupled with intensive behavioral interventions. Class I research will need to be performed to confirm this data.