Study on Screening of Main Acupoints and Pattern-Specific Acupoint Combination Rules for Acupuncture in Autism Spectrum Disorder Complicated with Sleep Disorder Based on Data Mining

Abstract

Objective: To explore the core acupuncture acupoints and pattern-adapted acupoint combination rules for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) complicated with sleep disorder using clinical data mining technology. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on the diagnosis and treatment data of 104 children with ASD complicated with sleep disorder admitted to Xi’an Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Encephalopathy Hospital from January 2022 to December 2024. Cross-pattern main acupoints were screened via frequency statistics, chi-square test, and factor analysis; pattern-specific auxiliary acupoints were extracted by combining multiple correspondence analysis, cluster analysis, and association rule mining. Results: Ten cross-pattern main acupoints (Baihui, Sishenzhen, Language Area 1, Language Area 2, Neiguan, Shenmen, Yongquan, Xuanzhong) were identified, and acupoint combination schemes for four major TCM patterns (Hyperactivity of Liver and Heart Fire, Deficiency of Kidney Essence, Deficiency of Both Heart and Spleen, Hyperactivity of Liver with Spleen Deficiency) were established. Conclusion: Acupuncture treatment should follow the principle of “regulating spirit and calming the brain as the root, and dredging collaterals based on pattern differentiation as the branch”. The synergy between main and auxiliary acupoints can accurately regulate the disease, providing a basis for precise clinical treatment.