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The diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) comprises a range of developmental disabilities, the established prevalence of which has been increasing globally. Despite decades of research, however, ASD is still not well understood and a generally accepted intervention or group of interventions which consistently and comprehensively address the spectrum of needs has not yet been identified or developed. Thus, in seeking a solution to their children's conditions, some parents have felt compelled to try complementary and alternative medical treatments.One such intervention that has attracted some advocates is off-label hyperbaric oxygen therapy. In examining the data for this application, we were struck by the wide range of oxygen partial pressures reported to have benefit and the fact that many could be easily provided at normobaric pressure. As we knew of no reason for the use of increased pressure in treating ASD with hyperoxic therapy, we determined to find out if benefits could be obtained from such treatments at normal atmospheric pressure.A pilot study with five cases involving preteens and teenagers with autism was conducted using a normobaric form of hyperoxic treatment we have called Microbaric® Oxygen Therapy (MBO2). All five cases benefitted, three remarkably so. Improvements were across the full range of symptoms of autism, and no regression was reported on cessation of treatment or during follow up for as long as six years. Thus, it appears that the outcomes of MBO2 for autism are permanent. As a consequence of this pilot study, it would seem imperative to conduct controlled research to confirm our findings. Should similar outcomes be obtained, then MBO2 would offer a new, cost-effective, and time efficient way forward as a stand-alone therapy or as an adjunct to other therapies in the treatment of autism.

ECENTLY, the angiographic delineation and surgical treatment of certain vascular malformations of the spinal cord has shown some promise. "~,'~,~ In contrast to these advances the lesion is often not suspected on clinical grounds alone and is discovered at myelography or exploration. These vascular malformations are responsible for a spectacular but confusing array of symptoms including radicular pain, myelopathy of progressive or remitting character, precipitous loss of function with or without partial recovery, and subarachnoid hemorrhage, s We are reporting a case in which an extensive malformation produced symptoms of transient ischemia, a feature which has previously received little attention in this disorder but which may be important in differential diagnoses.