Abstract: Objective To explore the core acupoints and compatibility rules of related acupoints in clinical acupuncture treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder(ASD) based on complex network technique. Methods The relevant articles of clinical trials on acupuncture treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder(ASD) were retrieved from CNKI, WanFang,VIP, CBM, PubMed and Web of Science published before April 2022.The database was established by using Microsoft Excel 2019.By using SPSS Modeler 18.0 software, the association rules of acupoints was analyzed, and then by using Gephi 0.9.2 software the complex network was analyzed and the complex network diagram was demonstrated. Results Finally, a total of 128 eligible articles containing 244 acupoint prescriptions and 154 acupoints were extracted.The total frequency of use of the 154 acupoints was 2 437.According to the frequency statistics and complex network k-core analysis,the core acupoints of clinical acupuncture treatment for ASD were mainly the acupoints selection of Jin's Three Needling therapy. Moreover, the association rules analysis also showed that the acupoints selection of Jin's Three Needling therapy had the highest correlation in the prescription of acupuncture for children with ASD. In addition to Jin's Three Needling therapy, according to Gephi analysis, acupoints such as Baihui(DU20), Zusanli(ST36), Neiguan(PC6), Sishencong(EX-HN1), Shenting(DU24), and Shenmen(HT7) had the higher value.These acupoints were also important acupoints in the treatment of children with ASD.Conclusion The acupoints selected for acupuncture treatment for children with ASD are mainly distributed in the head, and local acupoints are mainly selected. Jin's Three Needling therapy is the most widely used, and clinical attention is paid to governing and regulating the mind.

Key words:

Autism spectrum disorder, Acupuncture, Complex network analysis, Acupoint combinations；Children