Technologies to support the diagnosis and/or treatment of neurodevelopmental disorders: A systematic review

Neurosci Biobehav Rev. 2023 Feb:145:105021. doi: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.105021. Epub 2022 Dec 26.

Abstract

In recent years, there has been a great interest in utilizing technology in mental health research. The rapid technological development has encouraged researchers to apply technology as a part of a diagnostic process or treatment of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (NDDs). With the large number of studies being published comes an urgent need to inform clinicians and researchers about the latest advances in this field. Here, we methodically explore and summarize findings from studies published between August 2019 and February 2022. A search strategy led to the identification of 4108 records from PubMed and APA PsycInfo databases. 221 quantitative studies were included, covering a wide range of technologies used for diagnosis and/or treatment of NDDs, with the biggest focus on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The most popular technologies included machine learning, functional magnetic resonance imaging, electroencephalogram, magnetic resonance imaging, and neurofeedback. The results of the review indicate that technology-based diagnosis and intervention for NDD population is promising. However, given a high risk of bias of many studies, more high-quality research is needed.

Keywords: Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder; Autism Spectrum Disorder; Machine learning; Neurodevelopmental Disorders; Technology-based diagnosis; Technology-supported treatment.

Publication types

  • Systematic Review
  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity*
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder* / diagnosis
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder* / epidemiology
  • Autism Spectrum Disorder* / therapy
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Mental Health
  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders* / diagnosis
  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders* / therapy