Identification and reduction of retained primitive reflexes by sensory stimulation in autism spectrum disorder: Effects on qEEG networks and cognitive functions

Several authors have reported finding retained primitive reflexes (RPRs) in individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). This case report describes the reduction of RPRs and changes in cognitive function after transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) of muscle. Three individuals were examined in a study at the Institute for Neurology and Neurosurgery in Havana, Cuba. Two child neurologists, not involved in the study, conducted clinical examinations on each participant and diagnosed each with ASD based on DSM-V criteria and the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (an autism evaluation tool). Each child with ASD possessed a triad of impairments in three domains: social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviour. Individuals were evaluated by quantitative electroencephalographic measures and tested by standardised cognitive function tests before and after 12 weeks of intervention. These interventions were associated with reduced ASD symptoms in the three domains, significant changes in qEEG network connectivity and significantly improved performance on standardised cognitive tests.