Effects of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Core Symptoms and Sleep Disturbances in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

What was studied

This meta-analysis looked at transcranial direct current stimulation, or tDCS, in children with autism. It looked at core behaviours of autism and at sleep problems. The team searched databases up to June 1, 2026. These included PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase and Web of Science. It included randomised controlled trials. Study quality was rated with the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Data were pooled with RevMan and Stata software.

What they found

tDCS was linked to lower ATEC scores, with a mean difference of -8.81. It was also linked to lower ABC scores, at -12.08. CSHQ sleep scores were lower too, at -4.95. CARS scores showed no significant difference. The mean difference was -1.12.

What it means for patients

The authors say tDCS was linked to better outcomes on some behaviours of autism. They say it was mostly given at 1 mA over the DLPFC. They say early evidence also pointed to a possible sleep benefit. They add that this rests on a small number of studies. These have low certainty and need careful reading.

Why it is not certain yet

The sleep finding rests on a small number of studies of low certainty. The authors say it needs cautious reading. CARS scores showed no significant difference. A review can only be as good as the studies in it.

Source

Effects of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Core Symptoms and Sleep Disturbances in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

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