Estimulación magnética transcraneal como tratamiento de las funciones cognitivas, conductuales y sociales en niños y adolescentes en el trastorno del espectro autista: Una revisión bibliográfica.

Abstract

Introduction: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by impairments in social functioning, cognitive flexibility, and behavioral and emotional self-regulation. Its prevalence in children and adolescents has driven the search for interventions that complement traditional approaches, which often show limited efficacy. In this context, Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) has been proposed as a non-invasive neuromodulation technique with therapeutic potential. Objective: This study aims to summarize the available scientific evidence on the use of rTMS for the treatment of cognitive, behavioral, and social functions in children and adolescents diagnosed with ASD. Methodology: A qualitative literature review was conducted using scientific databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Taylor & Francis). Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, allowing the selection of studies published between 2012 and 2024, focused on children and adolescents with ASD who underwent rTMS protocols. Results: The results indicate that the most frequent protocols involve low-frequency rTMS (1 Hz) applied to the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. Evidence reports improvements in sustained attention, cognitive flexibility, reduction of stereotyped behaviors and irritability, and progress in emotional reciprocity and social interaction. Conclusion: rTMS represents a promising intervention for children and adolescents with ASD by modulating cortical plasticity and enhancing functional adaptation. However, there remains a need to standardize protocols and expand longitudinal studies to consolidate its clinical effectiveness.