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An ethical analysis of divergent clinical approaches to the application of genetic testing for autism and schizophrenia. Hum Genet 2021; 141:1069-1084. [PMID: 34453583 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-021-02349-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Genetic testing to identify genetic syndromes and copy number variants (CNVs) via whole genome platforms such as chromosome microarray (CMA) or exome sequencing (ES) is routinely performed clinically, and is considered by a variety of organizations and societies to be a "first-tier" test for individuals with developmental delay (DD), intellectual disability (ID), or autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, in the context of schizophrenia, though CNVs can have a large effect on risk, genetic testing is not typically a part of routine clinical care, and no clinical practice guidelines recommend testing. This raises the question of whether CNV testing should be similarly performed for individuals with schizophrenia. Here we consider this proposition in light of the history of genetic testing for ID/DD and ASD, and through the application of an ethical analysis designed to enable robust, accountable and justifiable decision-making. Using a systematic framework and application of relevant bioethical principles (beneficence, non-maleficence, autonomy, and justice), our examination highlights that while CNV testing for the indication of ID has considerable benefits, there is currently insufficient evidence to suggest that overall, the potential harms are outweighed by the potential benefits of CNV testing for the sole indications of schizophrenia or ASD. However, although the application of CNV tests for children with ASD or schizophrenia without ID/DD is, strictly speaking, off-label use, there may be clinical utility and benefits substantive enough to outweigh the harms. Research is needed to clarify the harms and benefits of testing in pediatric and adult contexts. Given that genetic counseling has demonstrated benefits for schizophrenia, and has the potential to mitigate many of the potential harms from genetic testing, any decisions to implement genetic testing for schizophrenia should involve high-quality evidence-based genetic counseling.
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Shea LL, Cooper D, Wilson AB. Preventing and improving interactions between autistic individuals and the criminal justice system: A roadmap for research. Autism Res 2021; 14:2053-2060. [PMID: 34402601 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Researchers have identified that autistic individuals are encountering the criminal justice system as victims, offenders, and witnesses at high rates. The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is increasing and generating a comprehensive approach to addressing criminal justice system involvement among autistic individuals is a timely and urgent need. Revisions to an established framework generated for use among individuals with mental health diagnoses, the sequential Intercept Model (SIM), were produced by an international consortium of interdisciplinary stakeholders presenting a new opportunity to identify gaps in ASD research and generate preventive solutions across the criminal justice system. The revised SIM maps each criminal justice system component, or Intercept, and includes paths for the experiences of autistic individuals as victims or witnesses to crimes as well as offenders to catalyze new and interdisciplinary research, policy, and practice efforts. As the field of ASD research continues to grow, the revised SIM is a promising pathway to avoiding siloed research approaches, including diverse autistic voices, and contributing to international dialogue about criminal justice reform at a critical juncture. LAY SUMMARY: Autistic individuals are encountering the criminal justice system as victims, offenders, and witnesses at high rates. A revised version of the SIM generated by an international consortium provides a cohesive framework to ensure research focused on this topic extends across the criminal justice system. Preventing and improving interactions between autistic individuals and the criminal justice system is an urgent research, policy, and practice need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Lawer Shea
- Policy and Analytics Center, A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Dylan Cooper
- Policy and Analytics Center, A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Amy Blank Wilson
- School of Social Work, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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Greene RK, Vasile I, Bradbury KR, Olsen A, Duvall SW. Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-2) elevations in a clinical sample of children and adolescents who do not have autism: Phenotypic profiles of false positives. Clin Neuropsychol 2021; 36:943-959. [PMID: 34294006 DOI: 10.1080/13854046.2021.1942220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE While the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, Second Edition (ADOS-2) shows high sensitivity for detecting autism spectrum disorder (ASD) when present (i.e. true positives), scores on the ADOS-2 may be falsely elevated for individuals with cognitive impairments or psychological concerns other than ASD (i.e. false positives). This study examined whether demographic, psychological, cognitive, and/or adaptive factors predict ADOS-2 false positives and which psychiatric diagnoses most often result in false positives. METHOD Sensitivity, specificity, false positive, and false negative rates were calculated among 214 5- to 16-year-old patients who completed an ADOS-2 (module 3) as part of an ASD diagnostic evaluation. Additional analyses were conducted with the 101 patients who received clinically elevated ADOS-2 scores (i.e. 56 true positives and 45 false positives). RESULTS Results revealed a 34% false positive rate and a 1% false negative rate. False positives were slightly more likely to be male, have lower restricted and repetitive behavior (RRB) severity scores on the ADOS-2, and demonstrate elevated anxiety during the ADOS-2. Neither IQ, adaptive functioning, nor caregiver-reported emotional functioning was predictive of false positive status. Trauma-related psychiatric diagnoses were more common among false positives. CONCLUSIONS The ADOS-2 should not be used in isolation to assess for ASD, and, in psychiatrically-complex cases, RRB symptom severity may be particularly helpful in differentiating ASD from other psychiatric conditions. Additionally, heightened levels of anxiety, more so than overactivity or disruptive behavior, may lead to non-ASD specific elevations in ADOS-2 scores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel K Greene
- Division of Pediatric Psychology, Department of Pediatrics, Institute on Development and Disability, Oregon Health & Science University and Doernbecher Children's Hospital, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Iulia Vasile
- Division of Pediatric Psychology, Department of Pediatrics, Institute on Development and Disability, Oregon Health & Science University and Doernbecher Children's Hospital, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Kathryn R Bradbury
- Division of Pediatric Psychology, Department of Pediatrics, Institute on Development and Disability, Oregon Health & Science University and Doernbecher Children's Hospital, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Aarika Olsen
- School of Graduate Psychology, Pacific University, Hillsboro, OR, USA
| | - Susanne W Duvall
- Division of Pediatric Psychology, Department of Pediatrics, Institute on Development and Disability, Oregon Health & Science University and Doernbecher Children's Hospital, Portland, OR, USA
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Blaxill M, Rogers T, Nevison C. Autism Tsunami: the Impact of Rising Prevalence on the Societal Cost of Autism in the United States. J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 52:2627-2643. [PMID: 34278527 PMCID: PMC9114071 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-021-05120-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The cost of ASD in the U.S. is estimated using a forecast model that for the first time accounts for the true historical increase in ASD. Model inputs include ASD prevalence, census population projections, six cost categories, ten age brackets, inflation projections, and three future prevalence scenarios. Future ASD costs increase dramatically: total base-case costs of $223 (175–271) billion/year are estimated in 2020; $589 billion/year in 2030, $1.36 trillion/year in 2040, and $5.54 (4.29–6.78) trillion/year by 2060, with substantial potential savings through ASD prevention. Rising prevalence, the shift from child to adult-dominated costs, the transfer of costs from parents onto government, and the soaring total costs raise pressing policy questions and demand an urgent focus on prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Cynthia Nevison
- Institute for Alpine and Arctic Research, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO, USA
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55
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Boutrus M, Gilani Z, Maybery MT, Alvares GA, Tan DW, Eastwood PR, Mian A, Whitehouse AJO. Brief Report: Facial Asymmetry and Autistic-Like Traits in the General Population. J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 51:2115-2123. [PMID: 32844273 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04661-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Atypical facial morphology, particularly increased facial asymmetry, has been identified in some individuals with Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC). Many cognitive, behavioural and biological features associated with ASC also occur on a continuum in the general population. The aim of the present study was to examine subthreshold levels of autistic traits and facial morphology in non-autistic individuals. Facial asymmetry was measured using three-dimensional facial photogrammetry, and the Autism-spectrum Quotient was used to measure autistic-like traits in a community-ascertained sample of young adults (n = 289). After accounting for covariates, there were no significant associations observed between autistic-like traits and facial asymmetry, suggesting that any potential facial morphology differences linked to ASC may be limited to the clinical condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Boutrus
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, 100 Roberts Rd, Subiaco, WA, 6008, Australia. .,Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism (Autism CRC), Brisbane, Australia. .,School of Psychological Science, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.
| | - Zulqarnain Gilani
- Computer Sciences and Software Engineering, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.,School of Science, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Australia
| | - Murray T Maybery
- School of Psychological Science, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Gail A Alvares
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, 100 Roberts Rd, Subiaco, WA, 6008, Australia.,Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism (Autism CRC), Brisbane, Australia
| | - Diana W Tan
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, 100 Roberts Rd, Subiaco, WA, 6008, Australia.,School of Psychological Science, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Peter R Eastwood
- School of Human Sciences, Centre for Sleep Science, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.,Department of Pulmonary Physiology & Sleep Medicine, West Australian Sleep Disorders Research Institute, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth,, Australia
| | - Ajmal Mian
- Computer Sciences and Software Engineering, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Andrew J O Whitehouse
- Telethon Kids Institute, University of Western Australia, 100 Roberts Rd, Subiaco, WA, 6008, Australia.,Cooperative Research Centre for Living with Autism (Autism CRC), Brisbane, Australia
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56
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Way H, Williams G, Hausman-Cohen S, Reeder J. Genomics as a Clinical Decision Support Tool: Successful Proof of Concept for Improved ASD Outcomes. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11070596. [PMID: 34202628 PMCID: PMC8305264 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11070596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Considerable evidence is emerging that Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is most often triggered by a range of different genetic variants that interact with environmental factors such as exposures to toxicants and changes to the food supply. Up to 80% of genetic variations that contribute to ASD found to date are neither extremely rare nor classified as pathogenic. Rather, they are less common single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), found in 1-15% or more of the population, that by themselves are not disease-causing. These genomic variants contribute to ASD by interacting with each other, along with nutritional and environmental factors. Examples of pathways affected or triggered include those related to brain inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, neuronal connectivity, synapse formation, impaired detoxification, methylation, and neurotransmitter-related effects. This article presents information on four case study patients that are part of a larger ongoing pilot study. A genomic clinical decision support (CDS) tool that specifically focuses on variants and pathways that have been associated with neurodevelopmental disorders was used in this pilot study to help develop a targeted, personalized prevention and intervention strategy for each child. In addition to an individual's genetic makeup, each patient's personal history, diet, and environmental factors were considered. The CDS tool also looked at genomic SNPs associated with secondary comorbid ASD conditions including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, and pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorder associated with streptococcal infections/pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANDAS/PANS). The interpreted genomics tool helped the treating clinician identify and develop personalized, genomically targeted treatment plans. Utilization of this treatment approach was associated with significant improvements in socialization and verbal skills, academic milestones and intelligence quotient (IQ), and overall increased ability to function in these children, as measured by autism treatment evaluation checklist (ATEC) scores and parent interviews.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather Way
- The Australian Centre for Genomic Analysis, Brisbane, QLD 4069, Australia;
| | | | - Sharon Hausman-Cohen
- IntellxxDNA™, Austin, TX 78731, USA; (G.W.); (J.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-512-717-3300
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Polish Adaptation of the Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ) and Female Autism Phenotype: An Investigation of Potentially Sex-Biased Items in the Screening Assessment and Their Impact on Scores. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11060682. [PMID: 34067422 PMCID: PMC8224591 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11060682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Standardized screening assessments and sex differences in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are still under-explored in Poland. This study investigated the differences between Polish ASD females and males based on the responses provided by parents/caregivers to a Polish adaptation of the Social Communication Questionnaire, SCQ Lifetime and SCQ Current. The study included 90 ASD participants from Mental Health Services and Autism Clinics in Poland with no intellectual disability and no profound communication difficulties. Parents provided information on the SCQ items which were compared under three domains of the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R). Four SCQ items with the examples were investigated. No significant differences were found between the two sexes in the three domains. The repetitive use of objects declined with age in ASD males. Although the findings of the present study did not reveal substantial gender biases in the Polish adaptation of the SCQ, it is necessary to take into account potential gender differences in the clinical presentation of ASD and in the adaptation of screening and diagnostic tools.
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58
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Fombonne E, MacFarlane H, Salem AC. Epidemiological surveys of ASD: advances and remaining challenges. J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 51:4271-4290. [PMID: 33864555 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-021-05005-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Recent worldwide epidemiological surveys of autism conducted in 37 countries are reviewed; the median prevalence of autism is .97% in 26 high-income countries. Methodological advances and remaining challenges in designing and executing surveys are discussed, including the effects on prevalence of variable case definitions and nosography, of reliance on parental reports only, case ascertainment through mainstream school surveys, innovative approaches to screen school samples more efficiently, and consideration of age in interpreting surveys. Directions for the future of autism epidemiology are discussed, including the need to systematically examine cross-cultural variation in phenotypic expression and developing surveillance programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Fombonne
- Department of Psychiatry, Oregon Health & Science University, Mail code: GH254 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd, Portland, OR, 97239, USA.
| | - Heather MacFarlane
- Department of Psychiatry, Oregon Health & Science University, Mail code: GH254 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Alexandra C Salem
- Department of Psychiatry, Oregon Health & Science University, Mail code: GH254 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Rd, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
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Nascimento IBD, Bitencourt CR, Fleig R. Estratégias para o transtorno do espectro autista: interação social e intervenções terapêuticas. JORNAL BRASILEIRO DE PSIQUIATRIA 2021. [DOI: 10.1590/0047-2085000000326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
RESUMO Objetivo: Identificar os fatores que dificultam as intervenções terapêuticas motoras em crianças com transtorno do espectro autista. Métodos: Foram utilizadas as bases de dados PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus e LILACS. Uma pesquisa de literatura cinzenta foi conduzida com acadêmico do Google. PRISMA foi usado, bem como a análise de risco de viés adaptada do Cochrane Manual para ensaios clínicos e, para outros estudos, foi utilizada a lista de verificação Downs e Black. Resultados: Dezessete artigos científicos foram incluídos na análise de síntese qualitativa sobre estratégias para interação social e motora em pacientes com transtorno do espectro autista. Quatorze artigos científicos alcançaram pontuações aceitáveis na escala de Downs e Black, e três ensaios clínicos indicaram domínios satisfatórios. Pessoas com transtorno do espectro autista apresentaram percentuais acima de 30%, com dificuldades de comportamentos sociáveis, de aprendizagem e de comunicação. O diagnóstico adequado e a preconização de um plano de tratamento para o desenvolvimento da motricidade são estratégias fundamentais e de ordem prioritária, uma vez que possibilitarão uma análise quantitativa ao longo da vida do autista, assim como proporcionarão uma maior viabilidade de análise das habilidades cognitivas. Conclusão: A dificuldade de comportamento social do indivíduo com transtorno do espectro autista pode ser o ponto-alvo nas suas limitações de aprendizagem motora. Portanto, a concepção metodológica com a prática de imitação, associada a uma dinâmica prazerosa do exercício rítmico, é a melhor sugestão para contemplar o direcionamento das pesquisas contemporâneas, uma vez que, quando prevalece a inter-relação entre interação social, aprendizagem motora e percepções sensoriais, os desfechos são mais significativos para essas crianças.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Raquel Fleig
- Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina, Brasil
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60
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Zhang Y, Zeng J, Wu D, Li X, Chen Y, Dai S, Wang B, Qi Y, Lu J. Effect and safety of acupuncture for autism spectrum disorders: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2021; 100:e22269. [PMID: 33725922 PMCID: PMC7982233 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000022269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition, which is characterized by impairment in social interaction or communication and lack of flexibility of imagination and behavior. Acupuncture is one of the most common modality of Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and has been used to treat various disease in clinical practice for more than 2000 years in China by correcting disharmony and dysregulation of body. It has sometimes been used as a treatment aimed at improving ASD symptoms and outcomes, but its clinical effectiveness and safety has not been rigorously reviewed. We will plan to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to summarize the current evidence on the effects and safety of acupuncture for ASD. METHODS The following databases will be searched: PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Embase, Wanfang Data, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, SinoMed, and VIP. Randomised controlled trials will be included to evaluate the effect and safety of acupuncture on patients with ASD. The primary outcome will be the core features of ASD. The risk of bias will be assessed by the Cochrane risk of bias tool. We will conduct a meta-analysis and sensitivity analysis, as well as a subgroup analysis if high heterogeneity is present, using Revman 5.3. We will use funnel plots to identify potential reporting biases. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation will be used to evaluate the quality of evidence. RESULTS This study will be to assess the effect and safety of acupuncture for ASD. CONCLUSIONS This study will assess the effect of acupuncture for ASD and provide reliable evidence for the choice of treatments. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The protocol will not need ethical approval because no issues of participant privacy exist. The results of this systematic review will provide evidence about the effect and safety of acupuncture for ASD. The results will be disseminated through peer review.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jianfei Zeng
- Shenzhen Kangning Hospital and Shenzhen Mental Health Center, Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Dan Wu
- Department of Child Psychiatry
| | | | | | | | | | - Yu Qi
- Department of Child Psychiatry
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Wang K, Li J, Zhang Y, Huang Y, Chen D, Shi Z, Smith AD, Li W, Gao Y. Central nervous system diseases related to pathological microglial phagocytosis. CNS Neurosci Ther 2021; 27:528-539. [PMID: 33650762 PMCID: PMC8025646 DOI: 10.1111/cns.13619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Microglia are important phagocytes of the central nervous system (CNS). They play an important role in protecting the CNS by clearing necrotic tissue and apoptotic cells in many CNS diseases. However, recent studies have found that microglia can phagocytose parts of neurons excessively, such as the neuronal cell body, synapse, or myelin sheaths, before or after the onset of CNS diseases, leading to aggravated injury and impaired tissue repair. Meanwhile, reduced phagocytosis of synapses and myelin results in abnormal circuit connections and inhibition of remyelination, respectively. Previous studies focused primarily on the positive effects of microglia phagocytosis, whereas only a few studies have focused on the negative effects. In this review, we use the term "pathological microglial phagocytosis" to refer to excessive or reduced phagocytosis by microglia that leads to structural or functional abnormalities in target cells and brain tissue. The classification of pathological microglial phagocytosis, the composition, and activation of related signaling pathways, as well as the process of pathological phagocytosis in various kinds of CNS diseases, are described in this review. We hypothesize that pathological microglial phagocytosis leads to aggravation of tissue damage and negative functional outcome. For example, excessive microglial phagocytosis of synapses can be observed in Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia, leading to significant synapse loss and memory impairment. In Parkinson's disease, ischemic stroke, and traumatic brain injury, excessive microglial phagocytosis of neuronal cell bodies causes impaired gray matter recovery and sensory dysfunction. We therefore believe that more studies should focus on the mechanism of pathological microglial phagocytosis and activation to uncover potential targets of therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiaying Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yichen Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Di Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ziyu Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Amanda D Smith
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Health Care System, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Wei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanqin Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Hall-Lande J, Esler AN, Hewitt A, Gunty AL. Age of Initial Identification of Autism Spectrum Disorder in a Diverse Urban Sample. J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 51:798-803. [PMID: 30302595 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-018-3763-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
This paper examines age of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) identification and related factors in a diverse urban sample, focusing on ASD identification in the East African Somali community. The overall average age of initial ASD identification was 4.8 years. Somali children received an initial clinical diagnosis of Autistic Disorder later than White children, and Somali children diagnosed with ASD born outside of Minnesota (MN) received their first comprehensive evaluation later than Somali children diagnosed with ASD born in MN. Most children had noted developmental concerns before age 3, with no significant racial or ethnic differences in those concerns. The current study contributes to a limited number of studies on early ASD identification in culturally and linguistically diverse populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Hall-Lande
- Institute on Community Integration, University of Minnesota, 150 Pillsbury Dr. SE, 204 Pattee Hall, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
| | - Amy N Esler
- Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinic, University of Minnesota, 717 Delaware St. SE, Ste 340, Minneapolis, MN, 55414, USA
| | - Amy Hewitt
- Institute on Community Integration, University of Minnesota, 150 Pillsbury Dr. SE, 204 Pattee Hall, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Amy L Gunty
- Institute on Community Integration, University of Minnesota, 150 Pillsbury Dr. SE, 204 Pattee Hall, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.
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63
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Krämer J, Beer M, Bode H, Winter B. Two Novel Compound Heterozygous Mutations in the TRAPPC9 Gene Reveal a Connection of Non-syndromic Intellectual Disability and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Front Genet 2021; 11:972. [PMID: 33719327 PMCID: PMC7947907 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.00972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by deficits in communication, social interaction, and repetitive behavior. Up to 70% of ASD cases are linked with intellectual disability (ID). The major genetic causes for ASD and ID are largely unknown, however, a shared genetic etiology between ASD and ID must be assumed. The trafficking protein particle complex subunit 9 (TRAPPC9) is highly expressed in postmitotic neurons of the cerebral cortex, playing a key role in development. Among 43 reported cases with mutations in TRAPPC9, all (100%) showed ID and developmental delay. Among the cases including information about ASD, 26% were affected (19 cases with information, among them 5 with ASD). Nevertheless, in some cases not classified as ASD, descriptions of autistic features like hand-flapping movements were present. Clinical Findings The affected individual presented with delay of speech development. Physical development was normal. Besides lateral slope of the eye-lid axis no facial abnormalities were evident. The individual was diagnosed with ID and ASD by structured testing. Cerebral MRI revealed associated abnormalities. Genetical Findings The chromosome set was 46,XY without structural changes. Array-CGH showed a normal molecular karyotype (arr(1-22)x2,(X,Y)x1). PCR for the FMR1 gene showed 41 ± 1 CGG repeats, and therefore no evidence of fragile X syndrome. A panel diagnostic for syndromal ID (CASK, EP300, HIVEP2, KIF1A, TRAPPC9) revealed two structural changes in TRAPPC9 in the compound heterozygosity. The mutations c.1678C > T (p.Arg560Cys) and c.3370C > T (p.Pro1124Ser) are classified as missense mutations and are both not described in the literature. Conclusion We report two new missense mutations in the TRAPPC9 gene in one individual with ID and ASD. The TRAPPC9 gene should be part of the diagnostic assessment in ID. ASD must be considered as a feature of TRAPPC9-associated ID. It might have been neglected in the literature and should result in specific testing for ASD in affected individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Krämer
- Division of Pediatric Neurology and Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Children's Hospital, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Meinrad Beer
- Department of Radiology, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Harald Bode
- Division of Pediatric Neurology and Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Children's Hospital, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Benedikt Winter
- Division of Pediatric Neurology and Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Children's Hospital, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
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Hus Y, Segal O. Challenges Surrounding the Diagnosis of Autism in Children. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2021; 17:3509-3529. [PMID: 34898983 PMCID: PMC8654688 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s282569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
This comprehensive thematic review aims to highlight and familiarize readers with the challenges and pitfalls encountered in differential diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in children to facilitate the process of accurate identification by stakeholders. Accordingly, articles that best answer our questions and highlight our concerns were chosen from well-established publishers with prime peer reviewed journals. Included are studies showing alternate views of the issues so as to point readers to other possibilities. ASD, a complex dynamic biological-neurodevelopmental disorder, is underscored by its heterogeneous symptomology, severity, and phenotypes - all characterized by social communication deficits and presence of restricted interests and repetitive behaviours (RRBs), the core symptoms in ASD. Language and intellectual capacities do not form ASD core symptoms although vary considerably. Accurate identification is challenging as ASD is often enmeshed with other neurodevelopmental disorders, and medical comorbidities, a situation now recognized as the rule rather than the exception in child psychiatry and developmental medicine. ASD is a disorder with varying performance and severity of symptoms over time, including unexpected loss of early skills, and lost diagnosis in some children following treatment. The review reiterates the urgency in accurate diagnosis in face of the rapid rise in ASD prevalence globally, and risk-increase in delayed or denied treatment with undesirable life-long consequences for most of the affected children. In addition, a call for change is advised to circumvent the ethical dilemma posed by the present "deficit model" in ASD diagnosis. Here, ASD prevalence is presented first, followed by emphasis on importance of accurate early diagnosis, and challenges in its accomplishment due to flaws in diagnostic instruments and other contributing factors. Next follow the required criteria for accurate identification, and its difficulties attributed to comorbid conditions, gender differences, and socio-economic and cultural influences. The conclusion includes future directions and a take away message.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvette Hus
- Cyprus University of Technology, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Theralab Research Collaborator, Limassol, Cyprus
| | - Osnat Segal
- Tel Aviv University, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Department of Communication Disorders, Tel-Aviv, Israel
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Harrop C, Libsack E, Bernier R, Dapretto M, Jack A, McPartland JC, Van Horn JD, Webb SJ, Pelphrey K. Do Biological Sex and Early Developmental Milestones Predict the Age of First Concerns and Eventual Diagnosis in Autism Spectrum Disorder? Autism Res 2021; 14:156-168. [PMID: 33274604 PMCID: PMC8023413 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Revised: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Despite advances in early detection, the average age of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis exceeds 4 years and is often later in females. In typical development, biological sex predicts inter-individual variation across multiple developmental milestones, with females often exhibiting earlier progression. The goal of this study was to examine sex differences in caregiver-reported developmental milestones (first word, phrase, walking) and their contribution to timing of initial concerns expressed by caregivers and eventual age of diagnosis. 195 (105 males) children and adolescents aged 8 to 17 years with a clinical diagnosis of ASD were recruited to the study (mean IQ = 99.76). While developmental milestones did not predict timing of diagnosis or age parents first expressed concerns, females had earlier first words and phrases than males. There was a marginal difference in the age of diagnosis, with females receiving their diagnosis 1 year later than males. Despite sex differences in developmental milestones and diagnostic variables, IQ was the most significant predictor in the timing of initial concerns and eventual diagnosis, suggesting children with lower IQ, regardless of sex, are identified and diagnosed earlier. Overall, biological sex and developmental milestones did not account for a large proportion of variance for the eventual age of ASD diagnosis, suggesting other factors (such as IQ and the timing of initial concerns) are potentially more influential. LAY SUMMARY: In this study, a later age of diagnosis in females having ASD was confirmed; however, biological sex was not the stronger predictor of age of diagnosis. Parents reported that females learned language more quickly than males, and parents noted their first concerns when females were older than males. In this sample, the strongest predictor of age of diagnosis was the age of first concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare Harrop
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Allied Health Sciences, Carr Mill Mall, Carrboro, NC, 27510
| | - Erin Libsack
- Stony Brook University, Department of Psychology, Stony Brook, NY, 11794
| | - Raphael Bernier
- University of Washington Seattle, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Seattle, WA, 98195
- Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Center on Child Health, Behavior and Development, Seattle, WA, 98121
| | - Mirella Dapretto
- University of California Los Angeles, Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, Los Angeles, CA, 90024
| | - Allison Jack
- George Mason University, Department of Psychology, Fairfax, VA, 22030
| | - James C. McPartland
- Yale School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, New Haven, CT, 06520
- Yale School of Medicine, Yale Child Study Center, New Haven, CT, 06519
| | | | - Sara Jane Webb
- University of Washington Seattle, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Seattle, WA, 98195
- Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Center on Child Health, Behavior and Development, Seattle, WA, 98121
| | - Kevin Pelphrey
- University of Virginia, Department of Neurology, Charlottesville, VA, 22903
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Sotelo-Orozco J, Abbeduto L, Hertz-Picciotto I, Slupsky CM. Association Between Plasma Metabolites and Psychometric Scores Among Children With Developmental Disabilities: Investigating Sex-Differences. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:579538. [PMID: 33414730 PMCID: PMC7783080 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.579538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Developmental disabilities are defined by delays in learning, language, and behavior, yet growing evidence has revealed disturbances in metabolic systems that may also be present. Little is known about whether these metabolic issues contribute to the symptoms or severity of these disabilities, or whether sex plays a role in these associations, given that boys are disproportionately affected by some developmental disabilities. Here we sought to investigate the correlation between psychometric scores, sex, and the plasma metabolome. Methods: The plasma metabolomes of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD; n = 167), idiopathic developmental delay (i-DD; n = 51), Down syndrome (DS; n = 31), and typically developing controls (TD; n = 193) were investigated using NMR spectroscopy. Spearman rank correlations and multiple linear regression models (adjusted for child's neurodevelopmental diagnosis, child's sex, child's age, child's race/ethnicity, maternal age at child's birth, and parental homeownership) were used to examine the association between plasma metabolites and sex in relation to psychometric measures of cognitive skills, adaptive behavior, and maladaptive behavior in our study population. Results: Higher levels of metabolites involved in cellular energy and mitochondrial function among children with ASD (fumarate and cis-aconitate), DS (lactate), and TD (pyruvate) are associated with poorer cognitive and adaptive subscales. Similarly, higher o-acetylcarnitine associated with deficits in cognitive subscales among all DS cases and TD boys, and carnitine correlated with increased maladaptive behavior among girls with ASD and girls with DS. Among children with DS, elevated myo-inositol, ornithine, and creatine correlated with poorer scores across several subscales. Even among TD cases, elevated 3-hydroxybutyrate correlated with decreased receptive language. In contrast, higher levels of glutamate were associated with better socialization skills among ASD cases. Even after adjusting for the child's neurodevelopmental diagnosis, sex, and other possible confounders, key metabolites including glycolysis metabolites (lactate and pyruvate), ketone bodies (3-hydroxybutyrate and acetoacetate), TCA cycle metabolites (cis-aconitate and fumarate), as well as ornithine were associated with deficits in multiple domains of cognitive function, adaptive skills, and aberrant behaviors. Conclusions: Our results highlight that some plasma metabolites may relate to specific functional subdomains within cognitive, adaptive, and behavioral development with some variation by diagnosis and sex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennie Sotelo-Orozco
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Leonard Abbeduto
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California Davis Health, Sacramento, CA, United States
- MIND Institute, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States
| | - Irva Hertz-Picciotto
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Carolyn M. Slupsky
- Department of Nutrition, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
- Department of Food Science and Technology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
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McGrath K, Bonuck K, Mann M. Exploratory spatial analysis of autism rates in New York school districts: role of sociodemographic and language differences. J Neurodev Disord 2020; 12:35. [PMID: 33327937 PMCID: PMC7745507 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-020-09338-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Literature on autism spectrum disorder (ASD) suggests lower ASD prevalence and higher age of diagnosis among children of color, from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, and from families with lower educational levels. These disparities have been attributed to factors such as limited access to diagnostic and treatment services, less opportunity for upward mobility to locales with ample resources, and linguistic barriers. However, few studies describe prevalence and geographic differences of ASD diagnoses by English Language Learner (ELL) status. Objectives The primary objectives of this study are to (1) spatially explore the prevalence of ASD among New York State school districts and (2) examine differences of ASD prevalence rates between ELLs and native English-speaking peers. Methods Using the 2016–2017 district-level data on public and non-public school age students (3–21 years old) receiving special education services in New York, we analyzed sociodemographic trends among school districts with varying percentages (low, medium, and high ranges) of students with ASD and ELLs. To do this, we conducted exploratory spatial analyses using GIS software, analysis of school district level demographic data, and multivariate linear regression. Results In contrast to prior research on ASD prevalence among minority groups, we found disproportionately higher rates of ASD among school districts with higher proportions of Black and Hispanic students. Geographic analysis revealed statistically significant clustering of school districts with high ASD rates in New York City and Albany. Higher proportions of ELLs tended to be concentrated in densely populated, urban, and geographically smaller school districts and had higher proportions of Black, Hispanic, and Asian students. Conclusions Schools with higher rates of ASD and ELL students tend to be concentrated in urban regions throughout New York and have higher representation of Black and Hispanic/Latino students, as well as higher rates of learning disabilities in general. Further research is warranted to explore possible reasons for this phenomenon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen McGrath
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York City, USA. .,CUNY Graduate Center, New York City, USA.
| | - Karen Bonuck
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York City, USA
| | - Mana Mann
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York City, USA
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Volk HE, Park B, Hollingue C, Jones KL, Ashwood P, Windham GC, Lurman F, Alexeeff SE, Kharrazi M, Pearl M, Van de Water J, Croen LA. Maternal immune response and air pollution exposure during pregnancy: insights from the Early Markers for Autism (EMA) study. J Neurodev Disord 2020; 12:42. [PMID: 33327930 PMCID: PMC7745402 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-020-09343-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perinatal exposure to air pollution and immune system dysregulation are two factors consistently associated with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and other neurodevelopmental outcomes. However, little is known about how air pollution may influence maternal immune function during pregnancy. OBJECTIVES To assess the relationship between mid-gestational circulating levels of maternal cytokines/chemokines and previous month air pollution exposure across neurodevelopmental groups, and to assess whether cytokines/chemokines mediate the relationship between air pollution exposures and risk of ASD and/or intellectual disability (ID) in the Early Markers for Autism (EMA) study. METHODS EMA is a population-based, nested case-control study which linked archived maternal serum samples collected during weeks 15-19 of gestation for routine prenatal screening, birth records, and Department of Developmental Services (DDS) records. Children receiving DDS services for ASD without intellectual disability (ASD without ID; n = 199), ASD with ID (ASD with ID; n = 180), ID without ASD (ID; n = 164), and children from the general population (GP; n = 414) with no DDS services were included in this analysis. Serum samples were quantified for 22 cytokines/chemokines using Luminex multiplex analysis technology. Air pollution exposure for the month prior to maternal serum collection was assigned based on the Environmental Protection Agency's Air Quality System data using the maternal residential address reported during the prenatal screening visit. RESULTS Previous month air pollution exposure and mid-gestational maternal cytokine and chemokine levels were significantly correlated, though weak in magnitude (ranging from - 0.16 to 0.13). Ten pairs of mid-pregnancy immune markers and previous month air pollutants were significantly associated within one of the child neurodevelopmental groups, adjusted for covariates (p < 0.001). Mid-pregnancy air pollution was not associated with any neurodevelopmental outcome. IL-6 remained associated with ASD with ID even after adjusting for air pollution exposure. CONCLUSION This study suggests that maternal immune activation is associated with risk for neurodevelopmental disorders. Furthermore, that prenatal air pollution exposure is associated with small, but perhaps biologically relevant, effects on maternal immune system function during pregnancy. Additional studies are needed to better evaluate how prenatal exposure to air pollution affects the trajectory of maternal immune activation during pregnancy, if windows of heightened susceptibility can be identified, and how these factors influence neurodevelopment of the offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather E Volk
- Department of Mental Health, Wendy Klag Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Kennedy Krieger Institute Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, 624 N. Broadway, HH833, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | - Bo Park
- Department of Public Health, California State University, Fullerton, CA, USA
| | - Calliope Hollingue
- Department of Mental Health, Wendy Klag Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Kennedy Krieger Institute Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, 624 N. Broadway, HH833, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Karen L Jones
- UC Davis MIND Institute, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Paul Ashwood
- UC Davis MIND Institute, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Gayle C Windham
- Environmental Health Investigations Branch, California Department of Public Health, Richmond, CA, USA
| | | | - Stacey E Alexeeff
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente of Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
| | - Martin Kharrazi
- Environmental Health Investigations Branch, California Department of Public Health, Richmond, CA, USA
| | - Michelle Pearl
- Environmental Health Investigations Branch, California Department of Public Health, Richmond, CA, USA
| | - Judy Van de Water
- UC Davis MIND Institute, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Lisa A Croen
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente of Northern California, Oakland, CA, USA
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Windham GC, Pearl M, Poon V, Berger K, Soriano JW, Eyles D, Lyall K, Kharrazi M, Croen LA. Maternal Vitamin D Levels During Pregnancy in Association With Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) or Intellectual Disability (ID) in Offspring; Exploring Non-linear Patterns and Demographic Sub-groups. Autism Res 2020; 13:2216-2229. [PMID: 33135392 PMCID: PMC11068065 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Revised: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Increasing vitamin D deficiency and evidence for vitamin D's role in brain and immune function have recently led to studies of neurodevelopment; however, few are specific to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and vitamin D in pregnancy, a likely susceptibility period. We examined this in a case-control study of 2000-2003 Southern Californian births; ASD and intellectual disability (ID) were identified through the Department of Developmental Services and controls from birth certificates (N = 534, 181, and 421, respectively, in this analysis). Total 25-Hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) was measured in mid-pregnancy serum, categorized as deficient (<50 nmol/L), insufficient (50-74 nmol/L), or sufficient (≥75 nmol/L, referent category), and examined continuously (per 25 nmol/L). Crude and adjusted odds ratios (AORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated. Non-linearity was examined with cubic splines. AORs (95% CI) for ASD were 0.79 (0.49-1.3) for maternal deficiency (9.5%), 0.93 (0.68-1.3) for insufficiency (25.6%), and 0.95 (0.86, 1.05) for linear continuous 25(OH)D. Results were similarly null for ASD with or without ID, and ID only. Interactions were observed; non-Hispanic whites (NHW) (AOR = 0.82, 95% CI = 0.69-0.98) and males (AOR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.80-0.99) had protective associations for ASD with continuous 25(OH)D. A positive association with ASD was observed in females (AOR = 1.40, 95% CI = 1.06-1.85). With splines, a non-linear inverted j-shaped pattern was seen overall (P = 0.009 for non-linearity), with the peak around 100 nmol/L; a non-linear pattern was not observed among NHW, females, nor for ID. Our findings from a large study of ASD and prenatal vitamin D levels indicate that further research is needed to investigate non-linear patterns and potentially vulnerable sub-groups. LAY SUMMARY: We studied whether mothers' vitamin D levels during pregnancy were related to their children having autism (or low IQ) later. Low vitamin D levels were not related to greater risk of autism or low IQ in children overall. With higher levels of mothers' vitamin D, risk of autism went down in boys, but went up in girls. Risk of autism also went down in children of non-Hispanic white mothers with higher vitamin D levels, but we did not find a relation in other race/ethnic groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gayle C Windham
- Environmental Health Investigations Branch, California Department of Public Health, Richmond, California, USA
| | - Michelle Pearl
- Environmental Health Investigations Branch, California Department of Public Health, Richmond, California, USA
| | - Victor Poon
- Sequoia Foundation, La Jolla, California, USA
| | | | | | - Darryl Eyles
- Queensland Brain Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kristen Lyall
- A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Martin Kharrazi
- Environmental Health Investigations Branch, California Department of Public Health, Richmond, California, USA
| | - Lisa A Croen
- Kaiser Permanente Division of Research, Oakland, California, USA
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Winter AS, Fountain C, Cheslack-Postava K, Bearman PS. The social patterning of autism diagnoses reversed in California between 1992 and 2018. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:30295-30302. [PMID: 33199592 PMCID: PMC7720167 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2015762117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
As rates of autism diagnosis increased dramatically over the past number of decades, prevalence rates were generally highest among Whites and among those of higher socioeconomic status (SES). Using a unique, population-level dataset, we find that rates of autism diagnosis continued to be on the rise in recent years, but who is diagnosed changed during the study period. Our data consist of birth records of all 13,272,573 children born in the state of California in 1992 through 2016 linked to autism caseload records for January 1992 through November 2019 from California's Department of Developmental Services. California's diagnosed autism incidence rate rose from 0.49 per 1,000 3-6 y olds in 1998 to 3.49 per 1,000 3-6 y olds in 2018, a 612% increase. However, diagnosed incidence rates did not rise uniformly across sociodemographic groups. By 2018, children of Black and Asian mothers were diagnosed at higher rates than children of non-Hispanic White mothers. Furthermore, among children of non-Hispanic White and Asian mothers, children of lower SES were diagnosed at higher rates than children of higher SES. These changes align with sociological theories of health disparities and contain important clues for more fully understanding the autism epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alix S Winter
- Interdisciplinary Center for Innovative Theory and Empirics, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027
| | - Christine Fountain
- Department of Sociology & Anthropology, Fordham University at Lincoln Center, New York, NY 10023
| | | | - Peter S Bearman
- Interdisciplinary Center for Innovative Theory and Empirics, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027;
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Arakawa H. Somatosensorimotor and Odor Modification, Along with Serotonergic Processes Underlying the Social Deficits in BTBR T+ Itpr3 tf/J and BALB/cJ Mouse Models of Autism. Neuroscience 2020; 445:144-162. [PMID: 32061779 PMCID: PMC8078887 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2020.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2019] [Revised: 02/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Autism is a complex spectrum of disorders characterized by core behavioral deficits in social communicative behavior, which are also required for comprehensive analysis of preclinical mouse models. As animal models of the core behavioral deficits in autism, two inbred mouse strains, BTBR T+ Itpr3tf/J (BTBR) and BALB/cJ (BALB), were compared with the standard social strain, C57BL/6J (B6), regarding a variety of behavioral factors underlying social communicative interactions, including olfactory and tactile sensory processes, social recognition abilities and behavioral expression strategies. Although both female BTBR and BALB mice can express social recognition and approach behavior depending on the stimuli they encounter, the available sensory modalities, along with modulation of the serotonergic system, differ between the two strains. BALB mice have deficits in using volatile olfactory cues and tactile information in a social context; they fail to exhibit a social approach to volatile cues and seek nonvolatile cues by exhibiting substantial sniff/contact behavior when allowed direct contact with social opponents. Systemic injection of the serotonin (5-HT1A) agonist buspirone has little effect on these social deficits, suggesting a congenitally degraded serotonergic system in BALB mice. In contrast, BTBR mice exhibit impaired body coordination and social motivation-modified olfactory signals, which are relevant to a reduced social approach. A systemic injection of the 5-HT1A agonist restored these social deficits in BTBR mice, indicating that a downregulated serotonergic system is involved in the social deficits exhibited by BTBR mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Arakawa
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Rodent Behavioral Core Department of Research Administration, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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Evaluation of a manualised speech and language therapy programme for children with social communication disorder: the SCIP feasibility study. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2020; 6:137. [PMID: 32983554 PMCID: PMC7510260 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-020-00658-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Children with Social (Pragmatic) Communication Disorder (SPCD) have long-term needs in using and processing social language and have a high risk of later mental health difficulties. A manualised speech and language therapy programme, the Social Communication Intervention Programme (SCIP) provides therapy content for SPCD. A feasibility study is required to derive more precise estimates of key parameters for a future trial of SCIP. Aims To assess the feasibility of conducting a substantive randomized controlled trial of SCIP for children with SPCD. Methods A questionnaire was distributed to paediatric speech and language therapists in England. Survey questions addressed number of eligible children, routine intervention provision and trial recruitment factors. In the second phase, a single-arm intervention feasibility study was completed. Fifteen speech and language practitioners identified 24 children aged 5-11 years with SPCD. Practitioners received training/supervision to deliver 20 SCIP therapy sessions to each child. At time 1, parents of participating children provided three communication goals; expected steps in each goal were defined. After intervention, parents and practitioners independently rated each goal compared to baseline ability. Two research practitioners compared parent post-intervention commentaries with outcome scores to derive guidance about clinical significance. All practitioners recorded audio commentaries on therapy experiences. Post-intervention interviews were conducted with 6 practitioners and 6 parents. An expert panel completed a Delphi consultation on trial design. Results Routine practice for SPCD varies widely. Children tend to be embedded in autism provision. Participation in a future trial was well supported provided resources are available to services. Outcomes analysis indicated all children except one made some progress on parent ratings; all children made progress on practitioner ratings. A power analysis for a future trial was carried out using current outcome measure as putative primary endpoint. Practitioners' audio-diaries provided suggestions for training and adaption in a future trial. Outcomes and therapy methods were acceptable to practitioners and parents. Conclusions The feasibility study evaluated a novel outcome measure of social communication skills in SPCD. A power calculation indicated a feasible framework for a trial within a realistic period of time. Recommendations for recruitment methods, adaptation of manual and training were supported by practitioners and an expert panel. Trial registration Title: Speech-language therapy for child social communication disorderTrial ID: ISRCTN48030419. Date registered: January 1, 2017. Registered retrospectively.
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73
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Hormonal contraceptives and autism epidemics. Med Hypotheses 2020; 141:109729. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2020.109729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Roux AM, Rast JE, Garfield T, Anderson KA, Shattuck PT. Prevalence and Correlates of Work Experiences Among High School Students on the Autism Spectrum. INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2020; 58:273-287. [PMID: 32750712 DOI: 10.1352/1934-9556-58.4.273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/27/2019] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
This study used nationally representative data to describe the prevalence and correlates of work experiences among high school students with autism who received special education. Four in tenstudents with autism experienced any type of work (community-based, school-sponsored, paid or unpaid) within a given year-significantly fewer than peers with and without disabilities. Rates of paid work among students with autism were comparable to students with intellectual disability (ID)but half the rate of non-special education peers. Among youth with autism, significant correlates of having work experiences included being white, parent participation in transition planning, and functional skills including navigation. Fostering a variety of early work experiences should be a key goal of disability employment policy at federal and state levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne M Roux
- Anne M. Roux, Jessica E. Rast, Tamara Garfield, Kristy A. Anderson, and Paul T. Shattuck, Drexel University
| | - Jessica E Rast
- Anne M. Roux, Jessica E. Rast, Tamara Garfield, Kristy A. Anderson, and Paul T. Shattuck, Drexel University
| | - Tamara Garfield
- Anne M. Roux, Jessica E. Rast, Tamara Garfield, Kristy A. Anderson, and Paul T. Shattuck, Drexel University
| | - Kristy A Anderson
- Anne M. Roux, Jessica E. Rast, Tamara Garfield, Kristy A. Anderson, and Paul T. Shattuck, Drexel University
| | - Paul T Shattuck
- Anne M. Roux, Jessica E. Rast, Tamara Garfield, Kristy A. Anderson, and Paul T. Shattuck, Drexel University
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Shamsi Meymandi M, Sepehri G, Moslemizadeh A, Vakili Shahrbabaki S, Bashiri H. Prenatal pregabalin is associated with sex-dependent alterations in some behavioral parameters in valproic acid-induced autism in rat offspring. Int J Dev Neurosci 2020; 80:500-511. [PMID: 32588482 DOI: 10.1002/jdn.10046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
This study was performed to evaluate the effects of prenatal exposure to pregabalin (PGB) on behavioral changes of rat offspring in an animal model of valproic acid (VPA)-induced autism-like symptoms. Pregnant rats received VPA (600 mg/kg/i.p.) once at 12.5 gestational days for autism-like symptom induction in offspring. After the delivery single male and single female offspring from each mother were randomly selected for behavioral test (anxiety, pain response, pleasure, and motor function) at 60th day adulthood (n = 7). Offspring received prenatal PGB (15 & 30 mg/kg/i.p.) during gestational days 9.5 to 15.5 either alone or in combination with VPA (PGB15, PGB30, PGB15 + VPA, and PGB30 + VPA). Control offspring received normal saline during the same period. The result showed that prenatal VPA exposure was associated with autism-like behaviors in rat offspring. PGB treatment during the gestational period revealed significant reduction in sucrose preference test and anxiety in elevated plus maze and open field test in offspring. Also, PGB treatments exhibited a dose-dependent increase in pain threshold in prenatally VPA exposed rats in tail-flick and hot plate test. Also, there was a sex-related significant impairment in motor function in beam balance and open field test, and male rats were affected more than females. However, no significant sex differences in sucrose preference and pain sensitivity were observed in prenatal PGB-treated rat offspring. In conclusion, prenatal exposure to VPA increased the risk of autism-like behaviors in the offspring rats, and PGB treatment during the gestational period was associated with some beneficial effects, including anxiety reduction and motor impairment in autism-like symptoms in rat offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manzumeh Shamsi Meymandi
- Pathology and Stem Cells Research Center, Kerman Medical School, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.,Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Sepehri
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | | | | | - Hamideh Bashiri
- Physiology Research Center, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical School, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sirjan School of Medical Sciences, Sirjan, Iran
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Garcia Primo P, Weber C, Posada de la Paz M, Fellinger J, Dirmhirn A, Holzinger D. Explaining Age at Autism Spectrum Diagnosis in Children with Migrant and Non-Migrant Background in Austria. Brain Sci 2020; 10:brainsci10070448. [PMID: 32674382 PMCID: PMC7407505 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10070448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
This study explored (i) differences in age at Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnosis between children with and without a migrant background in the main diagnostic centre for ASD in Upper Austria (ii) factors related to the age at diagnosis and (iii) whether specific factors differed between the two groups. A retrospective chart analysis included all children who received their first diagnosis before the age of 10 years (n = 211) between 2013 and 2018. Children with a migrant background were diagnosed 13 months earlier than those without (r = 0.278, p < 0.001), and had more severe delays in language, more severe autism, no Asperger’s syndrome, lower parental educational level and more frequent referrals by paediatricians. For the total sample, expressive language delay, severity of restricted and repetitive behaviours, higher nonverbal development, and paediatric referrals explained earlier diagnoses. There was a stronger effect of parental education and weaker effect of language impairment on age at ASD diagnosis in children with a migrant background. In conclusion, no delay in diagnosing ASD in children with a migrant background in a country with universal health care and an established system of paediatric developmental surveillance was found. Awareness of ASD, including Asperger’s syndrome, should be raised among families and healthcare professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Garcia Primo
- Research Institute of Developmental Medicine, Johannes Kepler University, 4020 Linz, Austria; (P.G.P.); (C.W.); (J.F.); (D.H.)
| | - Christoph Weber
- Research Institute of Developmental Medicine, Johannes Kepler University, 4020 Linz, Austria; (P.G.P.); (C.W.); (J.F.); (D.H.)
- Department for Inclusive Education, University of Education Upper Austria, 4020 Linz, Austria
| | - Manuel Posada de la Paz
- Institute of Rare Diseases Research (IIER) & CIBERER, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence:
| | - Johannes Fellinger
- Research Institute of Developmental Medicine, Johannes Kepler University, 4020 Linz, Austria; (P.G.P.); (C.W.); (J.F.); (D.H.)
- Institut für Sinnes- und Sprachneurologie, Konventhospital Barmherzige Brüder, 4020 Linz, Austria;
- Division of Social Psychiatry, Medical University of Vienna, 1010 Vienna, Austria
| | - Anna Dirmhirn
- Institut für Sinnes- und Sprachneurologie, Konventhospital Barmherzige Brüder, 4020 Linz, Austria;
| | - Daniel Holzinger
- Research Institute of Developmental Medicine, Johannes Kepler University, 4020 Linz, Austria; (P.G.P.); (C.W.); (J.F.); (D.H.)
- Institut für Sinnes- und Sprachneurologie, Konventhospital Barmherzige Brüder, 4020 Linz, Austria;
- Institute of Linguistics, Karl-Franzens University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria
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Tromans S, Chester V, Gemegah E, Roberts K, Morgan Z, Yao GL, Brugha T. Autism identification across ethnic groups: a narrative review. ADVANCES IN AUTISM 2020. [DOI: 10.1108/aia-03-2020-0017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of the paper is to review autism identification across different ethnic groups. Diagnosis of autism may be missed or delayed in certain ethnic groups, leading to such groups being underserved relative to their needs. This can result in members of such groups being effectively denied essential avenues of support that can substantially improve the quality of life of autistic persons as well as those whom care for them.
Design/methodology/approach
A literature search for articles reporting autism identification across ethnic groups was undertaken. Data are compared, with a special focus on possible explanations for any inter-group variation.
Findings
Autism identification appears to be generally lower in minority ethnic groups relative to the majority population. Individuals presenting with autism from minority groups appear to have more severe forms of the condition.
Originality/value
There are a multitude of potential explanations for inter-ethnicity variation in autism identification, including health care-related factors, broader environmental influences, cultural factors and possible biological differences. Implications for clinical practice and public health include a need to look at means of ensuring equitable access to relevant autism diagnostic and support services across ethnic groups. Further work is required to better understand the belief systems that operate within specific ethnic groups, how this may potentially impact upon autism identification and measures to address the concerns of such groups.
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Peristeri E, Aloizou AM, Keramida P, Tsouris Z, Siokas V, Mentis AFA, Dardiotis E. Cognitive Deficits in Myopathies. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21113795. [PMID: 32471196 PMCID: PMC7312055 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21113795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 05/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Myopathies represent a wide spectrum of heterogeneous diseases mainly characterized by the abnormal structure or functioning of skeletal muscle. The current paper provides a comprehensive overview of cognitive deficits observed in various myopathies by consulting the main libraries (Pubmed, Scopus and Google Scholar). This review focuses on the causal classification of myopathies and concomitant cognitive deficits. In most studies, cognitive deficits have been found after clinical observations while lesions were also present in brain imaging. Most studies refer to hereditary myopathies, mainly Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), and myotonic dystrophies (MDs); therefore, most of the overview will focus on these subtypes of myopathies. Most recent bibliographical sources have been preferred.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Peristeri
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, PC 41110 Larissa, Greece; (E.P.); (A.-M.A.); (P.K.); (Z.T.); (V.S.)
| | - Athina-Maria Aloizou
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, PC 41110 Larissa, Greece; (E.P.); (A.-M.A.); (P.K.); (Z.T.); (V.S.)
| | - Paraskevi Keramida
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, PC 41110 Larissa, Greece; (E.P.); (A.-M.A.); (P.K.); (Z.T.); (V.S.)
| | - Zisis Tsouris
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, PC 41110 Larissa, Greece; (E.P.); (A.-M.A.); (P.K.); (Z.T.); (V.S.)
| | - Vasileios Siokas
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, PC 41110 Larissa, Greece; (E.P.); (A.-M.A.); (P.K.); (Z.T.); (V.S.)
| | - Alexios-Fotios A. Mentis
- Public Health Laboratories, Hellenic Pasteur Institute, PC 11521 Athens, Greece;
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, PC 41110 Larissa, Greece
| | - Efthimios Dardiotis
- Department of Neurology, Laboratory of Neurogenetics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, University Hospital of Larissa, PC 41110 Larissa, Greece; (E.P.); (A.-M.A.); (P.K.); (Z.T.); (V.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.:+ 30-241-350-1137
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Mana S, Paillère Martinot ML, Martinot JL. Brain imaging findings in children and adolescents with mental disorders: A cross-sectional review. Eur Psychiatry 2020; 25:345-54. [PMID: 20620025 DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpsy.2010.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2010] [Revised: 04/08/2010] [Accepted: 04/22/2010] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractBackgroundWhile brain imaging studies of juvenile patients has expanded in recent years to investigate the cerebral neurophysiologic correlates of psychiatric disorders, this research field remains scarce. The aim of the present review was to cluster the main mental disorders according to the differential brain location of the imaging findings recently reported in children and adolescents reports. A second objective was to describe the worldwide distribution and the main directions of the recent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron tomography (PET) studies in these patients.MethodsA survey of 423 MRI and PET articles published between 2005 and 2008 was performed. A principal component analysis (PCA), then an activation likelihood estimate (ALE) meta-analysis, were applied on brain regional information retrieved from articles in order to cluster the various disorders with respect to the cerebral structures where alterations were reported. Furthermore, descriptive analysis characterized the literature production.ResultsTwo hundred and seventy-four articles involving children and adolescent patients were analyzed. Both the PCA and ALE methods clustered, three groups of diagnosed psychiatric disorders, according to the brain structural and functional locations: one group of affective disorders characterized by abnormalities of the frontal-limbic regions; a group of mental disorders with “cognition deficits” mainly related to cortex abnormalities; and one psychomotor condition associated with abnormalities in the basal ganglia. The descriptive analysis indicates a focus on attention deficit hyperactivity disorders and autism spectrum disorders, a general steady rise in the number of annual reports, and lead of US research.ConclusionThis cross-sectional review of child and adolescent mental disorders based on neuroimaging findings suggests overlaps of brain locations that allow to cluster the diagnosed disorders into three sets with respectively marked affective, cognitive, and psychomotor phenomenology. Furthermore, the brain imaging research effort was unequally distributed across disorders, and did not reflect their prevalence.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Mana
- Service hospitalier central de médecine nucléaire et neurospin, INSERM-CEA, Research Unit 1000 Neuroimaging & psychiatry, University Paris Sud and University Paris Descartes, 4, place Gl.-Leclerc, 91401 Orsay, France.
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Maenner MJ, Shaw KA, Baio J, Washington A, Patrick M, DiRienzo M, Christensen DL, Wiggins LD, Pettygrove S, Andrews JG, Lopez M, Hudson A, Baroud T, Schwenk Y, White T, Rosenberg CR, Lee LC, Harrington RA, Huston M, Hewitt A, Esler A, Hall-Lande J, Poynter JN, Hallas-Muchow L, Constantino JN, Fitzgerald RT, Zahorodny W, Shenouda J, Daniels JL, Warren Z, Vehorn A, Salinas A, Durkin MS, Dietz PM. Prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder Among Children Aged 8 Years - Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network, 11 Sites, United States, 2016. MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY WEEKLY REPORT. SURVEILLANCE SUMMARIES (WASHINGTON, D.C. : 2002) 2020. [PMID: 32214087 DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.ss6904a1externalicon] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
PROBLEM/CONDITION Autism spectrum disorder (ASD). PERIOD COVERED 2016. DESCRIPTION OF SYSTEM The Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network is an active surveillance program that provides estimates of the prevalence of ASD among children aged 8 years whose parents or guardians live in 11 ADDM Network sites in the United States (Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Georgia, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Wisconsin). Surveillance is conducted in two phases. The first phase involves review and abstraction of comprehensive evaluations that were completed by medical and educational service providers in the community. In the second phase, experienced clinicians who systematically review all abstracted information determine ASD case status. The case definition is based on ASD criteria described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition. RESULTS For 2016, across all 11 sites, ASD prevalence was 18.5 per 1,000 (one in 54) children aged 8 years, and ASD was 4.3 times as prevalent among boys as among girls. ASD prevalence varied by site, ranging from 13.1 (Colorado) to 31.4 (New Jersey). Prevalence estimates were approximately identical for non-Hispanic white (white), non-Hispanic black (black), and Asian/Pacific Islander children (18.5, 18.3, and 17.9, respectively) but lower for Hispanic children (15.4). Among children with ASD for whom data on intellectual or cognitive functioning were available, 33% were classified as having intellectual disability (intelligence quotient [IQ] ≤70); this percentage was higher among girls than boys (39% versus 32%) and among black and Hispanic than white children (47%, 36%, and 27%, respectively) [corrected]. Black children with ASD were less likely to have a first evaluation by age 36 months than were white children with ASD (40% versus 45%). The overall median age at earliest known ASD diagnosis (51 months) was similar by sex and racial and ethnic groups; however, black children with IQ ≤70 had a later median age at ASD diagnosis than white children with IQ ≤70 (48 months versus 42 months). INTERPRETATION The prevalence of ASD varied considerably across sites and was higher than previous estimates since 2014. Although no overall difference in ASD prevalence between black and white children aged 8 years was observed, the disparities for black children persisted in early evaluation and diagnosis of ASD. Hispanic children also continue to be identified as having ASD less frequently than white or black children. PUBLIC HEALTH ACTION These findings highlight the variability in the evaluation and detection of ASD across communities and between sociodemographic groups. Continued efforts are needed for early and equitable identification of ASD and timely enrollment in services.
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Maenner MJ, Shaw KA, Baio J, Washington A, Patrick M, DiRienzo M, Christensen DL, Wiggins LD, Pettygrove S, Andrews JG, Lopez M, Hudson A, Baroud T, Schwenk Y, White T, Rosenberg CR, Lee LC, Harrington RA, Huston M, Hewitt A, Esler A, Hall-Lande J, Poynter JN, Hallas-Muchow L, Constantino JN, Fitzgerald RT, Zahorodny W, Shenouda J, Daniels JL, Warren Z, Vehorn A, Salinas A, Durkin MS, Dietz PM. Prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder Among Children Aged 8 Years - Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network, 11 Sites, United States, 2016. MMWR. SURVEILLANCE SUMMARIES : MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY WEEKLY REPORT. SURVEILLANCE SUMMARIES 2020; 69:1-12. [PMID: 32214087 PMCID: PMC7119644 DOI: 10.15585/mmwr.ss6904a1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1493] [Impact Index Per Article: 373.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
PROBLEM/CONDITION Autism spectrum disorder (ASD). PERIOD COVERED 2016. DESCRIPTION OF SYSTEM The Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network is an active surveillance program that provides estimates of the prevalence of ASD among children aged 8 years whose parents or guardians live in 11 ADDM Network sites in the United States (Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Georgia, Maryland, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Wisconsin). Surveillance is conducted in two phases. The first phase involves review and abstraction of comprehensive evaluations that were completed by medical and educational service providers in the community. In the second phase, experienced clinicians who systematically review all abstracted information determine ASD case status. The case definition is based on ASD criteria described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition. RESULTS For 2016, across all 11 sites, ASD prevalence was 18.5 per 1,000 (one in 54) children aged 8 years, and ASD was 4.3 times as prevalent among boys as among girls. ASD prevalence varied by site, ranging from 13.1 (Colorado) to 31.4 (New Jersey). Prevalence estimates were approximately identical for non-Hispanic white (white), non-Hispanic black (black), and Asian/Pacific Islander children (18.5, 18.3, and 17.9, respectively) but lower for Hispanic children (15.4). Among children with ASD for whom data on intellectual or cognitive functioning were available, 33% were classified as having intellectual disability (intelligence quotient [IQ] ≤70); this percentage was higher among girls than boys (39% versus 32%) and among black and Hispanic than white children (47%, 36%, and 27%, respectively) [corrected]. Black children with ASD were less likely to have a first evaluation by age 36 months than were white children with ASD (40% versus 45%). The overall median age at earliest known ASD diagnosis (51 months) was similar by sex and racial and ethnic groups; however, black children with IQ ≤70 had a later median age at ASD diagnosis than white children with IQ ≤70 (48 months versus 42 months). INTERPRETATION The prevalence of ASD varied considerably across sites and was higher than previous estimates since 2014. Although no overall difference in ASD prevalence between black and white children aged 8 years was observed, the disparities for black children persisted in early evaluation and diagnosis of ASD. Hispanic children also continue to be identified as having ASD less frequently than white or black children. PUBLIC HEALTH ACTION These findings highlight the variability in the evaluation and detection of ASD across communities and between sociodemographic groups. Continued efforts are needed for early and equitable identification of ASD and timely enrollment in services.
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Plessis L, Wilquin H, Pavani JB, Bouteyre E. Comparison of relationships among French adult siblings with or without schizophrenia using the ASRQ-S: mediating effect on emotional distress. BMC Psychiatry 2020; 20:122. [PMID: 32169060 PMCID: PMC7071713 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-020-02510-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Good sibling relationships in adulthood are known to be a protective factor for mental health. The present study examined and compared the relationships of siblings with either a healthy brother or sister or one experiencing schizophrenia. METHODS In the first phase, we ran a statistical comparison of the two sibling groups on the quality of their sibling relationships (warmth, conflict, and rivalry), emotional distress, and self-esteem. In the second phase, we looked at whether the quality of the sibling relationship modifies the impact of having a brother or sister with schizophrenia on emotional distress and self-esteem. RESULTS Results showed that sibling relationships in schizophrenia are less warm and are characterized by heightened rivalry and conflict. In addition, analysis revealed a mediating effect of sibling relationship on the emotional distress of siblings with a brother/sister diagnosed with schizophrenia. CONCLUSION More needs to be done to enhance the mental health of adults who have a brother or sister with schizophrenia, notably via their sibling relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Léa Plessis
- LPCPP, Aix Marseille University, Aix-en-Provence, France.
| | - Hélène Wilquin
- grid.5399.60000 0001 2176 4817LPCPP, Aix Marseille University, Aix-en-Provence, France
| | - Jean-Baptiste Pavani
- grid.5399.60000 0001 2176 4817PsyCLE, Aix Marseille University, Aix-en-Provence, France
| | - Evelyne Bouteyre
- grid.5399.60000 0001 2176 4817LPCPP, Aix Marseille University, Aix-en-Provence, France
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Russell MJ, Premji S, Mcdonald S, Zwicker JD, Tough S. Health care service for families with children at early risk of developmental delay: an All Our Families cohort study. Dev Med Child Neurol 2020; 62:338-345. [PMID: 31469170 PMCID: PMC7028137 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.14343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
AIM This study examined children's health care service use, mothers' workforce participation, and mothers' community engagement based on children's risk of developmental delay. METHOD We used data from the All Our Families study, a prospective pregnancy cohort. Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) scores at year 2 indicated risk of developmental delay. To investigate the impact of risk of developmental delay when children were not diagnosed, a sensitivity analysis excluded reports of neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD) diagnosis at year 3. Outcomes were maternal reports of children's health and allied health visits (and estimated costs), and maternal workforce participation and community engagement from year 2 to 3. RESULTS Among 1314 mother-child dyads, 209 (16%) children were classified as being at risk of developmental delay by the ASQ, and 42 (3%) had a reported diagnosis of NDD. Risk of developmental delay was related to increased use of allied health care services (incidence risk ratio 5.04 [year 3]; 95% confidence interval 2.49-10.2) and health visits (incidence risk ratio 1.33 [year 3]; 95% confidence interval 1.14-1.54). The average expected allied health costs were greater for children at risk versus not at risk of developmental delay. However, when excluding children with reported diagnoses of an NDD from this analysis, increased service use and costs in the remaining at-risk population were not observed. Community engagement and workplace participation among families did not differ on the basis of risk of developmental delay. INTERPRETATION These results suggest increased health care service use by families of children at risk of developmental delay is driven by those receiving a diagnosis of an NDD in the subsequent year. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS Early developmental delay risk was related to health care service use and costs. Diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorder drove increased health care service use and costs. Early developmental delay risk did not relate to parental workforce participation. Early developmental delay risk did not relate to community engagement participation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Russell
- Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of MedicineUniversity of CalgaryCalgaryABCanada
- School of Public PolicyUniversity of CalgaryCalgaryABCanada
- PolicyWise for Children & FamiliesUniversity of CalgaryCalgaryABCanada
| | - Shainur Premji
- Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of MedicineUniversity of CalgaryCalgaryABCanada
- School of Public PolicyUniversity of CalgaryCalgaryABCanada
| | - Sheila Mcdonald
- Paediatrics, Cumming School of MedicineUniversity of CalgaryCalgaryABCanada
| | - Jennifer D Zwicker
- School of Public PolicyUniversity of CalgaryCalgaryABCanada
- Department of KinesiologyUniversity of CalgaryCalgaryABCanada
| | - Suzanne Tough
- Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of MedicineUniversity of CalgaryCalgaryABCanada
- Paediatrics, Cumming School of MedicineUniversity of CalgaryCalgaryABCanada
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Hodges H, Fealko C, Soares N. Autism spectrum disorder: definition, epidemiology, causes, and clinical evaluation. Transl Pediatr 2020; 9:S55-S65. [PMID: 32206584 PMCID: PMC7082249 DOI: 10.21037/tp.2019.09.09] [Citation(s) in RCA: 238] [Impact Index Per Article: 59.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in social communication and the presence of restricted interests and repetitive behaviors. There have been recent concerns about increased prevalence, and this article seeks to elaborate on factors that may influence prevalence rates, including recent changes to the diagnostic criteria. The authors review evidence that ASD is a neurobiological disorder influenced by both genetic and environmental factors affecting the developing brain, and enumerate factors that correlate with ASD risk. Finally, the article describes how clinical evaluation begins with developmental screening, followed by referral for a definitive diagnosis, and provides guidance on screening for comorbid conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly Hodges
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine and Meyer Center for Developmental Pediatrics, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Casey Fealko
- Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine, Kalamazoo, MI, USA
| | - Neelkamal Soares
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine, Kalamazoo, MI, USA
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The Female Autism Phenotype and Camouflaging: a Narrative Review. REVIEW JOURNAL OF AUTISM AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s40489-020-00197-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
AbstractAutism is more commonly diagnosed in males than females. One explanation is the ‘female protective effect’: there is something inherent in being female which reduces the likelihood of developing autism. However, evidence suggests that the condition is underdiagnosed in females, perhaps because females express their autism in ways which do not meet current diagnostic criteria. This review explores evidence for a female-typical autism presentation, the Female Autism Phenotype (FAP) and the component of camouflaging (compensating for and masking autistic characteristics) in particular. The evidence so far supports the existence of a female-typical autism presentation, although further examination of the characteristics and their impact across all genders and ages is needed.
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Zhao S, Chen WJ, Dhar SU, Eble TN, Kwok OM, Chen LS. Genetic Testing Experiences Among Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in the United States. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 49:4821-4833. [PMID: 31542846 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-019-04200-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
This study examined the experiences of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) genetic testing among parents of children with ASD. A nationwide sample of 552 parents of children with ASD completed an online survey. Nearly one-quarter (22.5%) of the parents reported that their affected children had undergone ASD genetic testing. The testing utilization was associated with awareness of ASD genetic testing and whether information was received from healthcare providers. Among parents whose children with ASD were tested, 37.6% had negative experiences, which mainly due to lack of perceived testing benefits to their affected children and unpleasant testing experiences with healthcare providers. To provide better healthcare services, it is critical to ensure parents understand the purposes, benefits, and results of ASD genetic testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shixi Zhao
- Department of Health, Exercise & Sports Sciences, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Wei-Ju Chen
- Department of Psychology, The University of Texas of the Permian Basin, Odessa, TX, USA
| | - Shweta U Dhar
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Tanya N Eble
- Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Oi-Man Kwok
- Department of Educational Psychology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Lei-Shih Chen
- Department of Health and Kinesiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA.
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Bilder DA, Esplin MS, Coon H, Burghardt P, Clark EAS, Fraser A, Smith KR, Worsham W, Chappelle K, Rayner T, Bakian AV. Early Second Trimester Maternal Serum Steroid-Related Biomarkers Associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 49:4572-4583. [PMID: 31410696 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-019-04162-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Epidemiologic studies link increased autism spectrum disorder (ASD) risk to obstetrical conditions associated with inflammation and steroid dysregulation, referred to as prenatal metabolic syndrome (PNMS). This pilot study measured steroid-related biomarkers in early second trimester maternal serum collected during the first and second trimester evaluation of risk study. ASD case and PNMS exposure status of index offspring were determined through linkage with autism registries and birth certificate records. ASD case (N = 53) and control (N = 19) groups were enriched for PNMS exposure. Higher estradiol and lower sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) were significantly associated with increased ASD risk. Study findings provide preliminary evidence to link greater placental estradiol activity with ASD and support future investigations of the prenatal steroid environment in ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah A Bilder
- University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA. .,Utah Autism Research Program, University of Utah, 650 Komas Drive, Suite 206, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA.
| | - M Sean Esplin
- University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA.,Intermountain Healthcare, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Hilary Coon
- University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA
| | | | | | - Alison Fraser
- University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA.,Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Ken R Smith
- University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108, USA.,Huntsman Cancer Institute, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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89
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Singh S, Sangam SR, Senthilkumar R. Regulation of Dietary Amino Acids and Voltage-Gated Calcium Channels in Autism Spectrum Disorder. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2020; 24:647-660. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-30402-7_24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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90
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Ames JL, Windham GC, Lyall K, Pearl M, Kharrazi M, Yoshida CK, Van de Water J, Ashwood P, Croen LA. Neonatal Thyroid Stimulating Hormone and Subsequent Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorders and Intellectual Disability. Autism Res 2019; 13:444-455. [DOI: 10.1002/aur.2247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Revised: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Gayle C. Windham
- Environmental Health Investigations BranchCalifornia Department of Public Health Richmond California
| | - Kristen Lyall
- A.J. Drexel Autism InstituteDrexel University Philadelphia Pennsylvania
| | - Michelle Pearl
- Environmental Health Investigations BranchCalifornia Department of Public Health Richmond California
| | - Martin Kharrazi
- Environmental Health Investigations BranchCalifornia Department of Public Health Richmond California
| | | | - Judy Van de Water
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Clinical ImmunologyUniversity of California Davis California
- MIND (Medical Investigations of Neurodevelopmental Disorders) InstituteUniversity of California Davis California
| | - Paul Ashwood
- MIND (Medical Investigations of Neurodevelopmental Disorders) InstituteUniversity of California Davis California
- Department of Medical Microbiology and ImmunologyUniversity of California Davis California
| | - Lisa A. Croen
- Kaiser Permanente Division of Research Oakland California
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91
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Peterson JL, Earl R, Fox EA, Ma R, Haidar G, Pepper M, Berliner L, Wallace A, Bernier R. Trauma and Autism Spectrum Disorder: Review, Proposed Treatment Adaptations and Future Directions. JOURNAL OF CHILD & ADOLESCENT TRAUMA 2019; 12:529-547. [PMID: 31819782 PMCID: PMC6901292 DOI: 10.1007/s40653-019-00253-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Empirical investigations of trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are lacking despite indications of increased risk for exposure to potentially traumatic events in this population. Research on the treatment of traumatic stress psychopathology in ASD is even more limited and suggests a critical need for guidance in the area of ASD-specific treatment adaptations. The current paper provides preliminary recommendations for adapting current evidenced-based, trauma-specific interventions, specifically trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), for individuals with ASD based on well-established and evidence-based practices for working with this population. These adaptations highlight the need to incorporate treatment goals related to ASD core symptoms and associated characteristics during treatment targeting traumatic stress symptoms. Future directions are discussed, including the development of instruments measuring trauma reactions in ASD, empirical investigations of modified trauma interventions for children with ASD to evaluate effectiveness, and collaboration between professionals specializing in ASD and trauma/PTSD to advance research and facilitate effective care for this community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica L Peterson
- Seattle Children's Autism Center, , 4909 25th Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98105, M/S CAC, PO Box 5371, Seattle, WA 98145-5005
| | - Rachel Earl
- University of Washington, Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences / Seattle Children's Hospital
| | - Emily A Fox
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA / Seattle Children's Hospital, M/S CAC PO Box 5371, 508.851.0996
| | - Ruqian Ma
- University of Washington College of Education and Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, CHDD Box 357920, Seattle, WA 98195
| | - Ghina Haidar
- University of Washington College of Education & Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, CHDD Box 357920, Seattle, WA 98195
| | - Micah Pepper
- University of Washington Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, CHDD Box 357920, Seattle, WA 98195
| | - Lucy Berliner
- University of Washington Medicine, Mailing Address: 325 Ninth Avenue, MS 359947 Seattle, WA 98104, 206 744-1600 (main line)
| | - Arianne Wallace
- University of Washington Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, CHDD Box 357920, Seattle, WA 98195
| | - Raphael Bernier
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, ,
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92
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Alshaban F, Aldosari M, Al‐Shammari H, El‐Hag S, Ghazal I, Tolefat M, Ali M, Kamal M, Abdel Aati N, Abeidah M, Saad AH, Dekair L, Al Khasawneh M, Ramsay K, Fombonne E. Prevalence and correlates of autism spectrum disorder in Qatar: a national study. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2019; 60:1254-1268. [PMID: 31069792 PMCID: PMC6899566 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.13066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few epidemiological data on autism spectrum disorders (ASD) exist for Arabic countries. We conducted the first survey of ASD in Qatar, a population with high consanguinity level. METHODS This cross-sectional survey was conducted from 2015 to 2018 in Qatar school-age children (N = 176,960) from national and immigrant families. Children diagnosed with ASD were identified through medical centers and special needs schools. Records were abstracted and supplemented by parental interviews. Additionally, children attending 93 schools were screened; ASD case status was confirmed in random samples of screen-positive and screen-negative children. Prevalence was estimated after taking into account different sampling fractions and participation rates at each survey phase. RESULTS One thousand three hundred and ninety-three children already diagnosed with ASD were identified. Among 9,074 school survey participants, 760 screen-negative children and 163 screen-positive children were evaluated; 17 were confirmed to have ASD including five children newly diagnosed. Prevalence was 1.14% (95% CI: 0.89-1.46) among 6- to 11-year-olds. ASD was reported in full siblings/extended relatives in 5.9% (95% CI: 0.042-0.080)/11.8% (95% CI: 0.095-0.146) families. First-degree consanguinity in Qatari cases (45%) was comparable to known population levels. Among 844 ASD cases (mean age: 7.2 years; 81% male), most children experienced language delay (words: 75.1%; phrase speech: 91.4%), and 19.4% reported developmental regression. At the time of the survey, persisting deficits in expressive language (19.4%) and peer interactions (14.0%) were reported in conjunction with behavioral problems (ADHD: 30.2%; anxiety: 11.0%). In multivariate logistic regression, ASD severity was associated with parental consanguinity, gestational diabetes, delay in walking, and developmental regression. CONCLUSIONS ASD prevalence in Qatar is consistent with recent international studies. The methods employed in this study should help designing comparable surveys in the region. We estimated that 187,000 youths under age 20 have ASD in Gulf countries. This figure should assist in planning health and educational services for a young, fast-growing population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fouad Alshaban
- Neurological Disorders Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI)Hamad Bin Khalifa UniversityDohaQatar
| | | | - Hawraa Al‐Shammari
- Neurological Disorders Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI)Hamad Bin Khalifa UniversityDohaQatar
| | - Saba El‐Hag
- Neurological Disorders Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI)Hamad Bin Khalifa UniversityDohaQatar
| | - Iman Ghazal
- Neurological Disorders Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI)Hamad Bin Khalifa UniversityDohaQatar
| | - Mohamed Tolefat
- Department of Clinical ServicesShafallah Center for Children with DisabilitiesDoha
| | - Mogahed Ali
- Department of Clinical ServicesShafallah Center for Children with DisabilitiesDoha
| | - Madeeha Kamal
- Department of PediatricsHamad Medical CorporationDohaQatar
| | | | | | | | - Lobna Dekair
- Department of PediatricsHamad Medical CorporationDohaQatar
| | | | - Katrina Ramsay
- Department of Public Health, Biostatistics and Design UnitOregon Health & Science UniversityPortlandORUSA
| | - Eric Fombonne
- Departments of Psychiatry, Pediatrics, and Behavioral NeurosciencesOregon Health & Science UniversityPortlandORUSA
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93
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Lundström S, Mårland C, Kuja-Halkola R, Anckarsäter H, Lichtenstein P, Gillberg C, Nilsson T. Assessing autism in females: The importance of a sex-specific comparison. Psychiatry Res 2019; 282:112566. [PMID: 31558402 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2019.112566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Revised: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is diagnosed more often in boys than girls. Here, we compared the degree of autism - and related disorders - symptomatology in boys and girls with a registered diagnosis of ASD. We used parent telephone interview A-TAC (Autism-Tics, ADHD and other Comorbidities) ratings of 30,392 twins aged 9 or 12 (including 308 boys and 122 girls with National Patient Register diagnoses of ASD) participating in the Child and Adolescent Twin Study in Sweden. We used z-scores for ASD-symptoms, standardized separately for boys and girls. Boys with a diagnosis of ASD had a higher raw mean score than girls with a diagnosis on the A-TAC ASD domain. However, utilizing the z-scores, girls with a diagnosis of ASD deviated further away from the female population mean than did the boys with ASD from the male population mean. Girls also had higher standardized mean values for symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Learning Disabilities and Oppositional Defiant Disorder. The findings suggest that girls diagnosed with autism may represent an even more extreme end of the female population autistic features distribution, than diagnosed boys from the male population autistic features distribution. Future studies may benefit from examining the use of sex-specific cut-off scores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Lundström
- Gillberg Neuropsychiatry Centre, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden; Centre for Ethics Law and Mental Health (CELAM), Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Caroline Mårland
- Centre for Ethics Law and Mental Health (CELAM), Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden; Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden.
| | - Ralf Kuja-Halkola
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Henrik Anckarsäter
- Centre for Ethics Law and Mental Health (CELAM), Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Paul Lichtenstein
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Christopher Gillberg
- Gillberg Neuropsychiatry Centre, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden; Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Thomas Nilsson
- Centre for Ethics Law and Mental Health (CELAM), Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
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94
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Cremone-Caira A, Buirkle J, Gilbert R, Nayudu N, Faja S. Relations between caregiver-report of sleep and executive function problems in children with autism spectrum disorder and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2019; 94:103464. [PMID: 31479914 PMCID: PMC6778038 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2019.103464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2018] [Revised: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) experience comorbid symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Additionally, children with ASD and ADHD often have sleep disturbances and deficits in executive functioning (EF). In typical development, sleep disturbances are causally linked to EF deficits and exacerbate ADHD-like symptoms. AIM The aim of this study was to determine whether caregiver-report sleep and EF difficulties predict ADHD symptoms in children with ASD. METHODS Caregiver-report of child sleep, EF, and ADHD symptom severity was collected for 101 children with ASD, 7-11 years of age. Hierarchical linear regressions tested the independent and interactive effects of sleep and EF in predicting ADHD symptoms. RESULTS Children with ASD were more likely to have symptoms of ADHD if they experienced both sleep and EF difficulties. Children with difficulties in working memory were particularly at risk for clinically significant symptoms of ADHD. Notably, however, sleep did not mediate or moderate the relation between working memory and ADHD symptoms in this sample, suggesting that these variables act through independent mechanisms to increase vulnerability for comorbidity. CONCLUSIONS These results have clinical significance as sleep and EF deficits may identify an ASD subgroup that is at increased risk for a comorbid ADHD diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Cremone-Caira
- Division of Developmental Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, 02215, United States; Harvard Medical School, 02215, United States
| | - Julia Buirkle
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, 01655, United States
| | - Rachel Gilbert
- Division of Developmental Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, 02215, United States
| | | | - Susan Faja
- Division of Developmental Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, 02215, United States; Harvard Medical School, 02215, United States.
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95
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Prenatal Exposure to Endocrine-disrupting Chemicals in Relation to Autism Spectrum Disorder and Intellectual Disability. Epidemiology 2019; 30:418-426. [PMID: 30789431 DOI: 10.1097/ede.0000000000000983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to endocrine disruptors is unavoidable. Many such compounds are suspected to impact neurologic development of children, but most studies conducted have considered effects of individual chemicals in isolation. Because exposures co-occur, it is important to consider their health impacts in a single regression framework. METHODS We applied Bayesian statistical tools (including shared mean and mixture priors for 25 unique chemicals) to study independent associations of endocrine disruptor biomarkers with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) (n = 491) and intellectual disability (n = 155), compared with 373 general population controls, in the Early Markers for Autism study. We measured biomarkers in maternal serum collected and stored from midpregnancy and considered them individually or as a class (i.e., summed polychlorinated biphenyls). We adjusted all models for original matching factors (child sex and month and year of birth), maternal age, maternal race/ethnicity, parity, and maternal education at the time samples were collected. We estimated the change in the odds of ASD or intellectual disability per 1 SD increase in the z-score of measured biomarker concentration for each chemical. RESULTS Odds of ASD and intellectual disability did not change with increasing concentration for any specific endocrine disruptor. The effect estimates for each chemical were centered on or near an odds ratio of 1.00 in both models where we applied a shared mean or a mixture prior. CONCLUSION Our mixtures analyses do not suggest an independent relationship with ASD or intellectual disability with any of the 25 chemicals examined together in this mixtures analysis.
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96
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Raina SK, Chander V, Bhardwaj AK, Kumar D, Sharma S, Kashyap V, Singh M, Bhardwaj A. Prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder among Rural, Urban, and Tribal Children (1-10 Years of Age). J Neurosci Rural Pract 2019; 8:368-374. [PMID: 28694615 PMCID: PMC5488556 DOI: 10.4103/jnrp.jnrp_329_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Studies on autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) have largely focused on children in specific settings. The current scenario of research in ASDs is limited largely to clinic-based case reports, case series, and retrospective chart reviews. The present study is the first population-based prevalence study conducted across rural, urban, and tribal populations in India. MATERIALS AND METHODS A cross-sectional two-phase study was conducted covering children in the age group of 1-10 years of age across geographical regions representing rural, urban, and tribal populations. The first phase (screening phase) involved administration of the Hindi version of the Indian Scale for Assessment of Autism. Those identified as suspected of ASD and 10% of all classified as nonsuspects for autism were also evaluated by the clinical team in second phase (evaluation phase). RESULTS Forty-three children out of a total of 28,070 children in rural, urban, and tribal area in the age group of 1-10 years were diagnosed as cases of ASD yielding a prevalence of 0.15% (95% confidence interval [CI] =0.15-0.25). Logistic regression analysis showed a two times significantly higher risk of diagnosing ASD in rural area as compared to tribal (odds ratio [OR]; 95% CI = 2.17 [1.04-4.52], P = 0.04). Male sex and upper socioeconomic group of head of family/father had a higher risk of getting diagnosed as autism as compared to lower socioeconomic group (OR; 95% CI - 3.23; 0.24-44.28, P = 0.38). CONCLUSIONS Estimation of true prevalence of ASD in India is going to improve policies on developmental disabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunil Kumar Raina
- Department of Community Medicine, Dr. R. P. Government Medical College, Tanda, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Vishav Chander
- Department of Community Medicine, Dr. R. P. Government Medical College, Tanda, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Ashok K Bhardwaj
- Department of Community Medicine, Dr. R. P. Government Medical College, Tanda, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Dinesh Kumar
- Department of Community Medicine, Dr. R. P. Government Medical College, Tanda, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Seema Sharma
- Department of Paediatrics, Dr. R. P. Government Medical College, Tanda, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Vipasha Kashyap
- Department of Community Medicine, Dr. R. P. Government Medical College, Tanda, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Mitasha Singh
- Department of Community Medicine, Dr. R. P. Government Medical College, Tanda, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, India
| | - Amit Bhardwaj
- Department of Neurology, Dr. R. P. Government Medical College, Tanda, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, India
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97
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Heuer LS, Croen LA, Jones KL, Yoshida CK, Hansen RL, Yolken R, Zerbo O, DeLorenze G, Kharrazi M, Ashwood P, Van de Water J. An Exploratory Examination of Neonatal Cytokines and Chemokines as Predictors of Autism Risk: The Early Markers for Autism Study. Biol Psychiatry 2019; 86:255-264. [PMID: 31279535 PMCID: PMC6677631 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2019.04.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2018] [Revised: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 04/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The identification of an early biomarker for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) would improve the determination of risk, leading to earlier diagnosis and, potentially, earlier intervention and improved outcomes. METHODS Data were generated from the Early Markers for Autism study, a population-based case-control study of prenatal and neonatal biomarkers of ASD. Newborn bloodspots of children with ASD (n = 370), children with developmental delay (n = 140), and general population (GP) controls (n = 378) were analyzed for 42 different immune markers using a Luminex multiplex platform. Comparisons of immune marker concentrations between groups were examined using logistic regression and partial least squares discriminant analysis. RESULTS Children with ASD had significantly increased neonatal levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and IL-8 compared with GP controls. An increase in IL-8 was especially significant in the ASD group with early onset compared with the GP group, with an adjusted odds ratio of 1.97 (95% confidence interval, 1.39-2.83; p = .00014). In addition, children with ASD had significantly elevated levels of eotaxin-1, interferon-γ, and IL-12p70 relative to children with developmental delay. We observed no significant differences in levels of immune markers between the developmental delay and GP groups. CONCLUSIONS Elevated levels of some inflammatory markers in newborn bloodspots indicated a higher degree of immune activation at birth in children who were subsequently diagnosed with ASD. The data from this exploratory study suggest that with further expansion, the development of neonatal bloodspot testing for cytokine/chemokine levels might lead to the identification of biomarkers that provide an accurate assessment of ASD risk at birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke S Heuer
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, California; MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Davis, California
| | - Lisa A Croen
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, California
| | - Karen L Jones
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, California; MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Davis, California
| | - Cathleen K Yoshida
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, California
| | - Robin L Hansen
- MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Davis, California; Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Davis, Davis, California
| | - Robert Yolken
- Stanley Division of Developmental Neurovirology, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Ousseny Zerbo
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, California
| | - Gerald DeLorenze
- Division of Research, Kaiser Permanente Northern California, Oakland, California
| | - Martin Kharrazi
- Environmental Health Investigations Branch, California Department of Public Health, Richmond, California
| | - Paul Ashwood
- MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Davis, California; Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of California, Davis, Davis, California
| | - Judy Van de Water
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, California; MIND Institute, University of California, Davis, Davis, California.
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98
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Segev A, Weisskopf MG, Levine H, Pinto O, Raz R. Incidence time trends and socioeconomic factors in the observed incidence of autism spectrum disorder in israel: A nationwide nested case-control study. Autism Res 2019; 12:1870-1879. [PMID: 31365189 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) trends have been gaining a great deal of focus in recent decades, as many studies worldwide show a continued rise in incidence rates. Many researchers have begun analyzing socioeconomic data in relation to ASD in an effort to understand the source of these changing rates and the role of awareness and access to resources. In this study, we aim to contribute to this body of knowledge by examining incidence time trends of ASD in Israel according to socioeconomic factors. While similar studies have been conducted in Israel, this study is the first of its kind to include the total population. Individual-level data from the Israeli National Insurance Institute were used to determine cumulative incidence of ASD, first for the total population, and then stratified by population group and income categories. Multivariable logistic regression models were fit to analyze associations between income category and both risk of ASD and risk of ASD diagnosis in later age. A total of 431,348 children were examined in this study, with 13,841 cases of ASD. The cumulative incidence of all children aged 8 in 2015 was 0.64%, marking an increase compared to previous literature from Israel. Within our study period, ASD incidence followed this increase until the 2009 birth cohort, where it began to stabilize. Our initial findings from regression models showed strong positive associations between household income and ASD incidence, as expected. After factoring in population group, however, the elevated ASD incidence rates in the highest income bracket decreased. Autism Res 2019, 12: 1870-1879. © 2019 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc. LAY SUMMARY: This study contributes comprehensive and current data on ASD trends overtime in Israel and introduces crucial insights regarding the impact of socioeconomic factors on ASD diagnoses. We found a rise in ASD that began leveling off in 2009. We identified more ASD diagnoses occurring in families with higher incomes and in the General Population, pointing to the important role of sociodemographic factors on ASD diagnoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avital Segev
- Braun School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Hebrew University-Hadassah, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Marc G Weisskopf
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Epidemiology, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Hagai Levine
- Braun School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Hebrew University-Hadassah, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ofir Pinto
- Israeli National Insurance Institute, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Raanan Raz
- Braun School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Hebrew University-Hadassah, Jerusalem, Israel
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99
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Prevalence of Co-occurring Medical and Behavioral Conditions/Symptoms Among 4- and 8-Year-Old Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Selected Areas of the United States in 2010. J Autism Dev Disord 2019. [PMID: 29524016 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-018-3521-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
We compared the prevalence of various medical and behavioral co-occurring conditions/symptoms between 4- and 8-year-olds with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) from five sites in the Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network during the 2010 survey year, accounting for sociodemographic differences. Over 95% of children had at least one co-occurring condition/symptom. Overall, the prevalence was higher in 8- than 4-year-olds for 67% of co-occurring conditions/symptoms examined. Further, our data suggested that co-occurring conditions/symptoms increased or decreased the age at which children were first evaluated for ASD. Similarly, among the 8-year-olds, the prevalence of most co-occurring conditions/symptoms was higher in children with a previous ASD diagnosis documented in their records. These findings are informative for understanding and screening co-occurring conditions/symptoms in ASD.
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100
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Pérez-Crespo L, Prats-Uribe A, Tobias A, Duran-Tauleria E, Coronado R, Hervás A, Guxens M. Temporal and Geographical Variability of Prevalence and Incidence of Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnoses in Children in Catalonia, Spain. Autism Res 2019; 12:1693-1705. [PMID: 31317678 PMCID: PMC6900126 DOI: 10.1002/aur.2172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2019] [Accepted: 06/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
This study aims to estimate the prevalence of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in 2017 and the ASD diagnosis incidence between 2009 and 2017 in children living in Catalonia region in Spain, and their temporal and geographical variability. We used administrative data for all children aged 2–17 years who were insured in the public Catalan Health System between 2009 and 2017. We identified all ASD cases diagnosed between 2009 and 2017 (ICD‐9 codes 299.0, 299.1, 299.8, and 299.9). We estimated the ASD prevalence in 2017 and the overall annual incidence between 2009 and 2017, then stratified by sex, age group, and healthcare area. We used Poisson regression models to assess temporal trends in the incidence and mixed‐effects Poisson regression models to assess geographical variability. We observed an ASD prevalence of 1.23% (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.21–1.25) in 2017, with 1.95% (95% CI 1.92–1.99) for boys and 0.46% (95% CI 0.44–0.48) for girls, the highest prevalence being in 11‐ to 17‐year‐olds (1.80%, 95% CI 1.76–1.83). The ASD diagnosis incidence increased from 0.07% (95% CI 0.06–0.09) in 2009 to 0.23% (95% CI 0.21–0.24) in 2017, with a higher increase in girls, and in children aged 2–5 years at the time of diagnosis. We only observed geographical differences in prevalence in the 2017 data. We also detected a threefold increase in the diagnosis incidence overall, which was even more pronounced in girls and at early ages. In conclusion, the ASD prevalence observed in this study was 1.23% in 2017, with a sex ratio of 4.5 in favor of boys, which is consistent with previous studies. Autism Res2019. © 2019 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Lay Summary Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are currently well known in our society as one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders during childhood. The results of our study showed that, in 2017 in Catalonia, slightly more than one in a 100 children had an ASD diagnosis, it was more common in boys than in girls, and also in older children. In addition, between 2009 and 2017, we observed an increase in the number of new cases diagnosed each year. The data presented in this study will assist in planning and evaluating the needs of health services in this geographical region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Pérez-Crespo
- ISGlobal, Barcelona, Spain.,Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona, Spain.,Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Albert Prats-Uribe
- Preventive Medicine and Public Health Training Unit, Parc de Salut Mar-Pompeu, Fabra University-Public Health Agency of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Centre for Statistics in Medicine, Botnar Research Centre, NDORMS, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Aurelio Tobias
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA), Spanish Council for Scientific Research (CSIC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Enric Duran-Tauleria
- Institut Global d'Atenció Integral del Neurodesenvolupament (IGAIN), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ricard Coronado
- Hospital General de Granollers, Granollers, Spain.,Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology and Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Amaia Hervás
- Institut Global d'Atenció Integral del Neurodesenvolupament (IGAIN), Barcelona, Spain.,Child and Adolescent Mental Health Unit, Hospital Universitari Mútua de Terrassa, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mònica Guxens
- ISGlobal, Barcelona, Spain.,Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona, Spain.,Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus University Medical Centre-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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