A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW TO INVESTIGATE THE EVIDENCE OF THE VISUOSPATIAL WORKING MEMORY DYSFUNCTION IN THE AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER.

Abstract

Background: Impaired working memory and executive function is one of the major theories that explain the cognitive bases of ASD symptoms. However, the previous research findings on the visuospatial working memory (VSWM) were inconsistent and widely varied.Aim of the Work: This work aims to examine the evidence for VSWM dysfunction in ASD children. This will be made by conducting a systematic review of literature in this topic area.Material and Methods: Three electronic databases (Pubmed, Science Direct, and CINHAL) were searched for articles. Relevant studies were further evaluated and studies that met inclusion criteria were reviewedResults: The literature search yielded 3048 studies. Forty-two articles were further evaluated to be included. Seven studies met all inclusion criteria and were chosen for review. The quality of the included studies assessed with the Newcastle Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale. The impairment of VSWM in ASD children was reported in 4 studies, while there are 3 studies with the opinion of intact VSWM. So, within this small number of included studies the results of VSWM in ASD were different.Conclusion: This systematic review generally couldn’t reach a conclusive evidence about VSWM dysfunction in children with ASD. This is mainly due to the small number of the included articles and the small sample size in almost all these studies. Besides, different measures used in the assessment of visuospatial working memory in those children as well as ignorance of receptive language profile of ASD children, intra-individual difference assessment of ASD group, ASD comorbidities especially ADHD and dyspraxia and type of treatment they received. More research works with neuroimaging support are required taking in consideration intra-individual aptitudes, receptive language profile, comorbidities and type of treatment of ASD group in order to provide further relevant assessment on neural bases of VSWM in ASD children.