Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are changes in neurological development that manifest in childhood, with greater or lesser intensity, and impair the ability to communicate and relate. Its etiology is still unknown, but studies state that the association between genetic, environmental and neurological factors influence the development of this disorder, being directly related to changes in the intestinal microbiota. The characteristics of ASD are: changes in the gastrointestinal tract, possible seizures, self-harm and sleep disorders due to anxiety, hyperactivity, gastroesophageal reflux, among others. The objective of this case report was to observe possible changes in the reduction of anxiety and improvement of sleep quality through the action of photobiomodulation and ultrasound. It was carried out with 1 patient with Autism Spectrum Disorder (intellectual disability), male, 12 years old, at the Photodynamic Therapy Unit of Santa Casa de São Carlos. The equipment used was RECUPERO®, capable of emitting laser and ultrasound. The application was performed during 10 sessions, on the palms of the hands, totaling 10 minutes on each hand (20 minutes in total). The ultrasound is used in continuous mode, with an intensity of 0.8w/cm2, with 1MHz and the therapeutic laser (photobiomodulation) at wavelengths of 660nm and 808nm. The mechanisms for evaluating progress are: Autism Treatment Assessment, Childhood Autism Assessment Scale, Assessment of Anxiety and Depression Levels and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. The results evaluated were positive for reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality, which optimizes the overall condition of these patients. This innovative, non-drug and non-invasive proposal is a resource that provides numerous benefits for the health and quality of life of these individuals.