Use of Wearable Sensors in Angelman Syndrome: A Systematic Review

Background Wearable sensors are a promising method for collecting clinical trial outcome data for people with Angelman syndrome (AS). However, there has yet to be a systematic probe into the ways in which wearable sensors have been successfully used in AS. The current study aims to provide a quantitative summary of wearable sensors used in AS, including contexts of use and psychometric properties, and to present key narrative highlights. Method Literature searches were performed in three electronic databases: APA PsycInfo, PubMed and Web of Science Core Collection. Data items were categorized into four categories: sample characteristics, study methodological details, wearable sensor characteristics and psychometric properties assessed. Sample characteristics included sample size, age, biological sex, race/ethnicity and cognitive/developmental functioning. Study methodological details were subdivided into study design and setting. Wearable sensor characteristics included sensor type, placement site, means of attachment, assessed construct and sensor‐related data loss. Psychometric properties assessed included reliability and validity of sensor‐derived data. Results We identified 16 articles through our systematic review. Wearable sensors were used to study sleep ( n = 10, 62.5%), language ( n = 2, 12.5%), gait ( n = 2, 12.5%), caregiver proximity ( n = 1, 6.3%), EEG power ( n = 1, 6.3%), and arousal ( n = 1, 6.3%) in AS through actigraphs, vocalization recorders, inertial sensors, radio‐frequency identification watches, wireless EEG caps, and functional near‐infrared spectroscopy caps, respectively. Findings from these studies broadly indicate that wearable sensors are feasible, reliable and valid for assessing a range of behaviours relevant to AS. Conclusions Wearable sensors are a promising solution to enhance assessments in AS. However, with the small extant literature characterized by small sample sizes and restricted focus on a few relevant features in AS, there remains ample opportunities to explore the use of wearable sensors in people with AS. Additional studies will better inform clinical decision‐making and ultimately improve the lives of people with AS and their families.