What Researchers Did
Researchers conducted an open-label pilot study to evaluate the effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on oxidative stress, inflammation, and symptoms in 18 children with autism.
What They Found
After 40 hyperbaric sessions, neither treatment group showed statistically significant changes in mean plasma oxidized glutathione (GSSG) levels. However, a trend towards improvement in mean C-reactive protein (CRP) was observed in both groups, particularly in children with higher initial CRP levels.
What This Means for Canadian Patients
This pilot study suggests that hyperbaric oxygen therapy may not significantly impact oxidative stress markers in children with autism. While a trend for reduced inflammation was noted, more robust research is needed before considering this therapy for Canadian patients.
Canadian Relevance
This study has no direct Canadian connection as it was not conducted in Canada nor involved Canadian participants or researchers.
Study Limitations
This was an open-label pilot study with a small sample size of 18 children, limiting the generalizability and definitive conclusions.