What are high activity brain patterns in children with ASD?

Studies of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) reveal that their brain patterns tend to have high activity or low activity (and both in some cases). High activity patterns in ASD show:

• Increased activity in the anterior cingulate gyrus (the “gear shifter”) and lateral (side) prefrontal cortex, relating to symptoms such as repetitious speech and behavior, getting stuck on thoughts and problems with transitions and change.
• A “ring of fire” pattern -- an overall increase of activity throughout the brain -- which may be associated with inflammation and be related to mood instability, emotional “meltdowns” and anxiety.

As you can see, brain activity patterns in ASD are quite varied. A detailed clinical history, SPECT imaging to understand brain function, neuropsychological testing and laboratory studies may be used to target treatment specifically to the brain using the least toxic, most effective means.