Application of functional near-infrared spectroscopy in the diagnosis and treatment of children with autism spectrum disorder

HOU Xinyu; CHEN Li

doi:10.11852/zgetbjzz2026-0426

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Chinese Journal of Child Health Care ›› 2026, Vol. 34 ›› Issue (6) : 692-696. DOI: 10.11852/zgetbjzz2026-0426

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Application of functional near-infrared spectroscopy in the diagnosis and treatment of children with autism spectrum disorder

HOU Xinyu, CHEN Li

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Abstract

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder primarily characterized by social deficits and restricted, repetitive behaviors.In recent years, functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), a non-invasive neuroimaging technique, has shown considerable potential in studying the neural mechanisms of ASD and evaluating clinical interventions because of its motion tolerance and portability.This review aims to systematically summarize the application of fNIRS in resting-state, task-state, and intervention assessments in children with ASD.Particular emphasis is placed on characteristic abnormalities in ASD, such as reduced functional connectivity and impaired interpersonal neural synchrony.Furthermore, the current methodological challenges and pathways for future clinical translation are discussed, aiming to provide a scientific reference for the promotion of fNIRS as a tool for investigating neural mechanisms and advancing precision medicine in ASD.

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autism spectrum disorder / functional near-infrared spectroscopy / resting-state / task-state / children

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HOU Xinyu, CHEN Li. Application of functional near-infrared spectroscopy in the diagnosis and treatment of children with autism spectrum disorder[J]. Chinese Journal of Child Health Care. 2026, 34(6): 692-696 https://doi.org/10.11852/zgetbjzz2026-0426

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