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Genovese AC, Butler MG. Behavioral and Psychiatric Disorders in Syndromic Autism. Brain Sci 2024; 14:343. [PMID: 38671997 PMCID: PMC11048128 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14040343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Syndromic autism refers to autism spectrum disorder diagnosed in the context of a known genetic syndrome. The specific manifestations of any one of these syndromic autisms are related to a clinically defined genetic syndrome that can be traced to certain genes and variants, genetic deletions, or duplications at the chromosome level. The genetic mutations or defects in single genes associated with these genetic disorders result in a significant elevation of risk for developing autism relative to the general population and are related to recurrence with inheritance patterns. Additionally, these syndromes are associated with typical behavioral characteristics or phenotypes as well as an increased risk for specific behavioral or psychiatric disorders and clinical findings. Knowledge of these associations helps guide clinicians in identifying potentially treatable conditions that can help to improve the lives of affected patients and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann C. Genovese
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA;
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Bel-Fenellós C, Biencinto-López C, Sáenz-Rico B, Hernández A, Sandoval-Talamantes AK, Tenorio-Castaño J, Lapunzina P, Nevado J. Cognitive-Behavioral Profile in Pediatric Patients with Syndrome 5p-; Genotype-Phenotype Correlationships. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1628. [PMID: 37628679 PMCID: PMC10454038 DOI: 10.3390/genes14081628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: 5p minus Syndrome (S5p-) is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by a deletion in the short arm of chromosome 5. Among the phenotypic characteristics of S5p-, the most characteristic and representative element is a monochromatic cry with a high-pitched tone reminiscent of a cat's meow. Individuals may also show great phenotypic heterogeneity and great genetic variability. Regarding cognitive-behavioral aspects of the syndrome, the studies are scarce and do not establish a general profile of the main cognitive-behavioral particularities that this syndrome presents. The main objective of this work was to describe the development profile of a cohort of 45 children with 5p minus Syndrome, concerning the biomedical, genetic, cognitive, and behavioral aspects. Establishing putative genotype-phenotype (cognitive-behavioral profiles) relationships in our cohort, from an interdisciplinary approach. (2) Methods: A selection of instruments of measures was selected for neuropsychological assessment (3) Results: In general, children with S5p- have a higher cognitive level than a communicative and motor level. Language difficulties, especially expressive ones, influence the frequency and severity of the most frequent behavioral problems in S5p. The most significant problem behavior of children with S5p-, especially girls, is self-harm. Compulsive behavior, limited preferences, and interest in monotony are significantly more frequent in subjects with better cognitive levels. We also find a significant correlation between the size of the loss of genetic material on 5p and the cognitive level of the subjects. (4) Conclusions: We described for the first time, the cognitive-behavioral profile of a cohort of minors with S5p-. Remarkably, it was found that language, especially of an expressive nature, modulates the most frequent behavioral aspects in subjects with lower cognitive levels, so it is essential to develop verbal or alternative communication strategies adjusted to these individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Bel-Fenellós
- Departamento Investigación y Psicología en Educación, Facultad de Educación, Universidad Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (C.B.-F.); (C.B.-L.)
| | - Chantal Biencinto-López
- Departamento Investigación y Psicología en Educación, Facultad de Educación, Universidad Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (C.B.-F.); (C.B.-L.)
| | - Belén Sáenz-Rico
- Departamento de Estudios Educativos, Facultad de Educación, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Adolfo Hernández
- Departamento Economía Financiera y Actuarial y Estadística, Facultad de Comercio y Turismo, Universidad Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Ana Karen Sandoval-Talamantes
- Instituto de Genética Médica y Molecular (INGEMM)-IdiPAZ, Hospital Universitario La Paz, 28046 Madrid, Spain; (A.K.S.-T.); (J.T.-C.); (P.L.)
| | - Jair Tenorio-Castaño
- Instituto de Genética Médica y Molecular (INGEMM)-IdiPAZ, Hospital Universitario La Paz, 28046 Madrid, Spain; (A.K.S.-T.); (J.T.-C.); (P.L.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- ITHACA, European Reference Network, Hospital la Paz, 28046 Madrid, Spain
| | - Pablo Lapunzina
- Instituto de Genética Médica y Molecular (INGEMM)-IdiPAZ, Hospital Universitario La Paz, 28046 Madrid, Spain; (A.K.S.-T.); (J.T.-C.); (P.L.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- ITHACA, European Reference Network, Hospital la Paz, 28046 Madrid, Spain
| | - Julián Nevado
- Instituto de Genética Médica y Molecular (INGEMM)-IdiPAZ, Hospital Universitario La Paz, 28046 Madrid, Spain; (A.K.S.-T.); (J.T.-C.); (P.L.)
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras (CIBERER), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- ITHACA, European Reference Network, Hospital la Paz, 28046 Madrid, Spain
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Jenner L, Richards C, Howard R, Moss J. Heterogeneity of Autism Characteristics in Genetic Syndromes: Key Considerations for Assessment and Support. CURRENT DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS REPORTS 2023; 10:132-146. [PMID: 37193200 PMCID: PMC10169182 DOI: 10.1007/s40474-023-00276-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of Review Elevated prevalence of autism characteristics is reported in genetic syndromes associated with intellectual disability. This review summarises recent evidence on the behavioural heterogeneity of autism in the following syndromes: Fragile X, Cornelia de Lange, Williams, Prader-Willi, Angelman, Down, Smith-Magenis, and tuberous sclerosis complex. Key considerations for assessment and support are discussed. Recent Findings The profile and developmental trajectory of autism-related behaviour in these syndromes indicate some degree of syndrome specificity which may interact with broader behavioural phenotypes (e.g. hypersociability), intellectual disability, and mental health (e.g. anxiety). Genetic subtype and co-occurring epilepsy within syndromes contribute to increased significance of autism characteristics. Autism-related strengths and challenges are likely to be overlooked or misunderstood using existing screening/diagnostic tools and criteria, which lack sensitivity and specificity within these populations. Summary Autism characteristics are highly heterogeneous across genetic syndromes and often distinguishable from non-syndromic autism. Autism diagnostic assessment practices in this population should be tailored to specific syndromes. Service provisions must begin to prioritise needs-led support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Jenner
- School of Psychology, University of Surrey, Guildford, England
| | | | - Rachel Howard
- School of Psychology, University of Surrey, Guildford, England
| | - Joanna Moss
- School of Psychology, University of Surrey, Guildford, England
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Ajmone PF, Giani L, Allegri B, Michelini G, Dall'Ara F, Rigamonti C, Monti F, Vizziello PG, Selicorni A, Milani D, Scaini S, Costantino A. The developmental trajectories of the behavioral phenotype and neuropsychiatric functioning in Cornelia de Lange and Rubinstein Taybi syndromes: A longitudinal study. Am J Med Genet A 2023; 191:424-436. [PMID: 36373849 PMCID: PMC10099472 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.63039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Revised: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Several changes in the behavioral phenotype arise with the growth of children affected by Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS) and Rubinstein-Taybi Syndrome (RSTS). However, previous research relied on a cross-sectional study design turning into age-related comparisons of different syndromic cohorts to explore age-dependent changes. We aim to outline the variating pathways of the neuropsychiatric functioning across the lifespan in CdLS and RSTS, through the setting up of a longitudinal study design. The sample included 14 patients with CdLS and 15 with RSTS. The assessments were carried out in two different timepoints. Our findings highlight that the cognitive profile of CdLS is subjected to a worsening trend with decreasing Intellectual Quotient (IQ) scores from T0 to T1, whereas RSTS shows a stable IQ over time. Patients affected by RSTS show greater improvements compared to CdLS in communication, daily living skills, social abilities, and motor skills across the lifespan. Both syndromes report an upward trend in behavioral and emotional difficulties even if CdLS exhibit a significant and major deterioration compared to individuals with RSTS. Being aware of the early dysfunctional patterns which might pave the way for later neuropsychiatric impairments is the first step for planning preventive interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Francesca Ajmone
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Service (UONPIA), Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Ludovica Giani
- Child and Youth Lab, Sigmund Freud University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Beatrice Allegri
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Service (UONPIA), Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Francesca Dall'Ara
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Service (UONPIA), Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Claudia Rigamonti
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Service (UONPIA), Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Federico Monti
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Service (UONPIA), Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Giovanna Vizziello
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Service (UONPIA), Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Donatella Milani
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Service (UONPIA), Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Simona Scaini
- Child and Youth Lab, Sigmund Freud University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Antonella Costantino
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Service (UONPIA), Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
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Bozhilova N, Welham A, Adams D, Bissell S, Bruining H, Crawford H, Eden K, Nelson L, Oliver C, Powis L, Richards C, Waite J, Watson P, Rhys H, Wilde L, Woodcock K, Moss J. Profiles of autism characteristics in thirteen genetic syndromes: a machine learning approach. Mol Autism 2023; 14:3. [PMID: 36639821 PMCID: PMC9837969 DOI: 10.1186/s13229-022-00530-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Phenotypic studies have identified distinct patterns of autistic characteristics in genetic syndromes associated with intellectual disability (ID), leading to diagnostic uncertainty and compromised access to autism-related support. Previous research has tended to include small samples and diverse measures, which limits the generalisability of findings. In this study, we generated detailed profiles of autistic characteristics in a large sample of > 1500 individuals with rare genetic syndromes. METHODS Profiles of autistic characteristics based on the Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ) scores were generated for thirteen genetic syndrome groups (Angelman n = 154, Cri du Chat n = 75, Cornelia de Lange n = 199, fragile X n = 297, Prader-Willi n = 278, Lowe n = 89, Smith-Magenis n = 54, Down n = 135, Sotos n = 40, Rubinstein-Taybi n = 102, 1p36 deletion n = 41, tuberous sclerosis complex n = 83 and Phelan-McDermid n = 35 syndromes). It was hypothesised that each syndrome group would evidence a degree of specificity in autistic characteristics. To test this hypothesis, a classification algorithm via support vector machine (SVM) learning was applied to scores from over 1500 individuals diagnosed with one of the thirteen genetic syndromes and autistic individuals who did not have a known genetic syndrome (ASD; n = 254). Self-help skills were included as an additional predictor. RESULTS Genetic syndromes were associated with different but overlapping autism-related profiles, indicated by the substantial accuracy of the entire, multiclass SVM model (55% correctly classified individuals). Syndrome groups such as Angelman, fragile X, Prader-Willi, Rubinstein-Taybi and Cornelia de Lange showed greater phenotypic specificity than groups such as Cri du Chat, Lowe, Smith-Magenis, tuberous sclerosis complex, Sotos and Phelan-McDermid. The inclusion of the ASD reference group and self-help skills did not change the model accuracy. LIMITATIONS The key limitations of our study include a cross-sectional design, reliance on a screening tool which focuses primarily on social communication skills and imbalanced sample size across syndrome groups. CONCLUSIONS These findings replicate and extend previous work, demonstrating syndrome-specific profiles of autistic characteristics in people with genetic syndromes compared to autistic individuals without a genetic syndrome. This work calls for greater precision of assessment of autistic characteristics in individuals with genetic syndromes associated with ID.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natali Bozhilova
- grid.5475.30000 0004 0407 4824School of Psychology, University of Surrey, Guilford, UK
| | - Alice Welham
- grid.9918.90000 0004 1936 8411School of Psychology, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Dawn Adams
- grid.1022.10000 0004 0437 5432Autism Centre of Excellence, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Stacey Bissell
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
| | - Hilgo Bruining
- grid.7177.60000000084992262Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Hayley Crawford
- grid.7372.10000 0000 8809 1613Mental Health and Wellbeing Unit, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Kate Eden
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
| | - Lisa Nelson
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
| | - Christopher Oliver
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
| | - Laurie Powis
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
| | - Caroline Richards
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
| | - Jane Waite
- grid.7273.10000 0004 0376 4727School of Psychology, College of Health and Life Sciences, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Peter Watson
- grid.5335.00000000121885934MRC Brain and Cognition Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Hefin Rhys
- grid.451388.30000 0004 1795 1830Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | - Lucy Wilde
- grid.10837.3d0000 0000 9606 9301School of Psychology, Open University, Milton Keynes, UK
| | - Kate Woodcock
- grid.6572.60000 0004 1936 7486School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
| | - Joanna Moss
- grid.5475.30000 0004 0407 4824School of Psychology, University of Surrey, Guilford, UK
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Ajmone PF, Allegri B, Cereda A, Michelini G, Dall'Ara F, Mariani M, Rigamonti C, Selicorni A, Vizziello P, Costantino MA. Neuropsychiatric Functioning in CDLS: A Detailed Phenotype and Genotype Correlation. J Autism Dev Disord 2021; 52:4763-4773. [PMID: 34751866 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-021-05343-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Behavioural phenotype and autism-related traits of 38 patients affected by Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) were assessed using a specific neuropsychiatric protocol. Subsequently,we search for possible genotype-phenotype correlations comparing individuals with NIPBL variants and patients with negative molecular results. Firstly results showed a higher percentage of subjects with normal intellectual quotient (IQ) and borderline IQ; adaptive skills were lower than expected for age in all participants. 39.5% of the sample presented with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), NIPBL mutated individuals demonstrated a worse trend in comparison with the clinical diagnosis group. non-truncating individuals displayed no ASD and better communication abilities than truncating individuals. Findings increase our awareness of the strengths and weaknesses points in CdLS individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Francesca Ajmone
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatric Service (UONPIA) Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Pace 9, 20122, Milan, Italy.
| | - Beatrice Allegri
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatric Service (UONPIA) Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Pace 9, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Cereda
- Department of Paediatrics, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Giovanni Michelini
- Child and Youth Lab, Department of Psychology, Sigmund Freud University, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Dall'Ara
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatric Service (UONPIA) Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Pace 9, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Claudia Rigamonti
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatric Service (UONPIA) Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Pace 9, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Paola Vizziello
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatric Service (UONPIA) Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Pace 9, 20122, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Antonella Costantino
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatric Service (UONPIA) Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Via Pace 9, 20122, Milan, Italy
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW While previous reviews have extended descriptions of the behavioural phenotype of Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) significantly, potential changes with age across the lifespan have been neglected. Age-related difference in the behavioural phenotype constitutes preliminary evidence of change with age. Documenting and understanding the developmental trajectories of behaviours is informative as it enables identification of risk periods for behavioural challenges and compromised mental health. RECENT FINDINGS Recent cross sectional, longitudinal and mixed design studies report differing presentations of the behavioural phenotype across the lifespan. Of particular interest are autistic characteristics and behaviours consistent with compromised mental health, particularly anxiety and negative affect, which are reported to be more common and severe in older individuals. Preliminary evidence for identified causal pathways with consideration of biological, cognitive and environmental factors are discussed. SUMMARY Older individuals with CdLS appear to be at greater risk of poorer psychological wellbeing than younger peers with significant implications for risk informed preventive and early interventions. Further work is required to document the behavioural phenotype across the lifespan with consideration of multiple factors that may influence the trajectory and extent of negative outcomes.
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An Observational Study of Social Interaction Skills and Behaviors in Cornelia de Lange, Fragile X and Rubinstein-Taybi Syndromes. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 50:4001-4010. [PMID: 32189229 PMCID: PMC7560922 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04440-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
We directly assessed the broader aspects of sociability (social enjoyment, social motivation, social interaction skills and social discomfort) in individuals with Cornelia de Lange (CdLS), fragile X (FXS) and Rubinstein-Taybi syndromes (RTS), and their association with autism characteristics and chronological age in these groups. Individuals with FXS (p < 0.01) and RTS (p < 0.01) showed poorer quality of eye contact compared to individuals with CdLS. Individuals with FXS showed less person and more object attention than individuals with CdLS (p < 0.01). Associations between sociability and autism characteristics and chronological age differed between groups, which may indicate divergence in the development and aetiology of different components of sociability across these groups. Findings indicate that individuals with CdLS, FXS and RTS show unique profiles of sociability.
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Moskowitz LJ, Will EA, Black CJ, Roberts JE. Restricted and Repetitive Behaviors in Males and Females with Fragile X Syndrome: Developmental Trajectories in Toddlers Through Young Adults. J Autism Dev Disord 2020; 50:3957-3966. [PMID: 32221748 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04459-7] [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: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
There is limited research on the trajectory of restricted and repetitive behaviors (RRBs) in fragile X syndrome (FXS), with previous studies only examining males and/or examining RRBs as a unitary construct rather than delineating subtypes of RRBs. Thus, we described the trajectory of five subtypes of RRBs in 153 males and females with FXS (aged 1-18 years) with repeated measurement over time (445 total assessments). Multilevel modeling was used to test age-related differences in RRB subtypes between males and females with FXS, controlling for nonverbal IQ. Results showed that lower-order Sensory-Motor behaviors decreased over time for both males and females, while there was no significant change in the higher-order RRBs. The trajectory between males and females differed for Self-Injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren J Moskowitz
- Department of Psychology, St. John's University, 8000 Utopia Parkway, Queens, NY, 11439, USA.
| | - Elizabeth A Will
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Conner J Black
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Jane E Roberts
- Department of Psychology, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
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Groves L, Moss J, Crawford H, Nelson L, Stinton C, Singla G, Oliver C. Lifespan trajectory of affect in Cornelia de Lange syndrome: towards a neurobiological hypothesis. J Neurodev Disord 2019; 11:6. [PMID: 31174462 PMCID: PMC6555708 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-019-9269-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Depressive symptomology and low affect are comparatively common in individuals with genetic disorders such as Cornelia de Lange syndrome. However, lifespan trajectories and associated person characteristics have not been examined. In this study, the trajectories for affect and associated behavioural characteristics were investigated in individuals with Cornelia de Lange syndrome with individuals with fragile X syndrome (FXS) comparable for chronological age and total number of behavioural indicators of ASD included for the purpose of contrast. Methods A 7-year longitudinal study of affect (mood, interest and pleasure) was conducted in individuals with CdLS (n = 44) and FXS (n = 95). The trajectories of low affect were explored, as well as associations between Time 1 behavioural characteristics and affect at Time 1 and Time 3 (7 years later). Results The CdLS group were lower in mood than the FXS group overall (p < .001). Interest and pleasure scores showed a significant decline over the lifespan for individuals with CdLS (p < .001) but not the FXS group. Lower level of ability at Time 1 was associated with lower mood at Time 1 and Time 3 in the FXS group only. Higher levels of ASD symptomology at Time 1 were associated with low mood and interest and pleasure in both syndrome groups at Time 1 and Time 3. Greater insistence on sameness at Time 1 was associated with lower mood at Time 1 in the FXS group and lower interest and pleasure at Time 1 and Time 3 in the CdLS group. Conclusions Low affect in specific genetic syndromes may be associated with differing lifespan trajectories and behavioural profiles. Specifically, individuals with CdLS appear at risk for experiencing declines in levels of interest and pleasure whereas individuals with FXS show no significant change in the level of affect with age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Groves
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, B15 2TT, UK.
| | - Joanna Moss
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, B15 2TT, UK.,Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, 17 Queen Square, London, WC1N 3AR, UK
| | - Hayley Crawford
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, B15 2TT, UK.,Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry, CV1 5FB, UK
| | - Lisa Nelson
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, B15 2TT, UK.,Derby Royal Hospital, Uttoxeter Road, Derby, DE22 3NE, UK
| | - Chris Stinton
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, B15 2TT, UK.,Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Gursharan Singla
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, B15 2TT, UK
| | - Chris Oliver
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, B15 2TT, UK
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Cochran L, Welham A, Oliver C, Arshad A, Moss JF. Age-related Behavioural Change in Cornelia de Lange and Cri du Chat Syndromes: A Seven Year Follow-up Study. J Autism Dev Disord 2019; 49:2476-2487. [PMID: 30941551 PMCID: PMC6546645 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-019-03966-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Age-related behavioural change in Cornelia de Lange syndrome is poorly understood. We report a 7 year follow-up study of adaptive behaviour, autism spectrum disorder symptomatology, language skills and behavioural characteristics in 30 individuals with Cornelia de Lange syndrome, compared with 18 individuals with Cri du Chat syndrome. The proportion of individuals with Cornelia de Lange syndrome meeting criteria for autism spectrum disorder on the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule increased, although patterns of change were complex. For both syndrome groups, absolute levels of adaptive ability were stable and receptive language improved, suggesting that changes over time do not result from an overall decline in ability. Reliable change index scores indicate heterogeneity within both groups in the occurrence of improvement or decline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Cochran
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Alice Welham
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Chris Oliver
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Adam Arshad
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Joanna F. Moss
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, London, UK
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Abstract
Movement disorders are reported in idiopathic autism but the extent to which comparable movement disorders are found in syndromic/co-morbid autism is unknown. A systematic search of Medline, Embase, PsychINFO and CINAHL on the prevalence of specific movement disorder in syndromic autism associated with specific genetic syndromes identified 16 papers, all relating to Angelman syndrome or Rett syndrome. Prevalence rates of 72.7–100% and 25.0–27.3% were reported for ataxia and tremor, respectively, in Angelman syndrome. In Rett syndrome, prevalence rates of 43.6–50% were reported for ataxia and 27.3–48.3% for tremor with additional reports of dystonia, rigidity and pyramidal signs. However, reliable assessment measures were rarely used and recruitment was often not described in sufficient detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Bell
- Merseycare NHS Trust, Liverpool, UK.,University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | | | - D J Hare
- School of Psychology, Cardiff University, 70 Park Place, Cardiff, CF10 3AT, UK.
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13
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Adams D, Hastings RP, Alston-Knox C, Cianfaglione R, Eden K, Felce D, Griffith G, Moss J, Stinton C, Oliver C. Using Bayesian methodology to explore the profile of mental health and well-being in 646 mothers of children with 13 rare genetic syndromes in relation to mothers of children with autism. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2018; 13:185. [PMID: 30359268 PMCID: PMC6203267 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-018-0924-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is well documented that mothers of children with intellectual disabilities or autism experience elevated stress, with mental health compromised. However, comparatively little is known about mothers of children with rare genetic syndromes. This study describes mental health and well-being in mothers of children with 13 rare genetic syndromes and contrasts the results with mothers of children with autism. METHODS Mothers of children with 13 genetic syndromes (n = 646; Angelman, Cornelia de Lange, Down, Fragile-X, Phelan McDermid, Prader-Willi, Rett, Rubenstein Taybi, Smith Magenis, Soto, Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, 1p36 deletion and 8p23 deletion syndromes) and mothers of children with autism (n = 66) completed measures of positive mental health, stress and depression. Using Bayesian methodology, the influence of syndrome, child ability, and mother and child age were explored in relation to each outcome. Bayesian Model Averaging was used to explore maternal depression, positive gain and positive affect, and maternal stress was tested using an ordinal probit regression model. RESULTS Different child and mother factors influenced different aspects of mental well-being, and critically, the importance of these factors differed between syndromes. Maternal depression was influenced by child ability in only four syndromes, with the other syndromes reporting elevated or lower levels of maternal depression regardless of child factors. Maternal stress showed a more complex pattern of interaction with child ability, and for some groups, child age. Within positive mental health, mother and child age were more influential than child ability. Some syndromes reported comparable levels of depression (SMS, 1p36, CdLS) and stress (SMS, AS) to mothers of children with autism. CONCLUSIONS Bayesian methodology was used in a novel manner to explore factors that explain variability in mental health amongst mothers of children with rare genetic disorders. Significant proportions of mothers of children with specific genetic syndromes experienced levels of depression and stress similar to those reported by mothers of children with autism. Identifying such high-risk mothers allows for potential early intervention and the implementation of support structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawn Adams
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
- Autism Centre of Excellence, School of Education and Professional Studies, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Richard P Hastings
- Centre for Educational Development Appraisal and Research, University of Warwick, Warwick, UK
| | - Clair Alston-Knox
- Griffith Social and Behavioural Research College, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Rina Cianfaglione
- Welsh Centre for Learning Disabilities, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Kate Eden
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
| | - David Felce
- Welsh Centre for Learning Disabilities, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Jo Moss
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
| | - Chris Stinton
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
| | - Chris Oliver
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
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14
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Kline AD, Moss JF, Selicorni A, Bisgaard AM, Deardorff MA, Gillett PM, Ishman SL, Kerr LM, Levin AV, Mulder PA, Ramos FJ, Wierzba J, Ajmone PF, Axtell D, Blagowidow N, Cereda A, Costantino A, Cormier-Daire V, FitzPatrick D, Grados M, Groves L, Guthrie W, Huisman S, Kaiser FJ, Koekkoek G, Levis M, Mariani M, McCleery JP, Menke LA, Metrena A, O'Connor J, Oliver C, Pie J, Piening S, Potter CJ, Quaglio AL, Redeker E, Richman D, Rigamonti C, Shi A, Tümer Z, Van Balkom IDC, Hennekam RC. Diagnosis and management of Cornelia de Lange syndrome: first international consensus statement. Nat Rev Genet 2018; 19:649-666. [PMID: 29995837 PMCID: PMC7136165 DOI: 10.1038/s41576-018-0031-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 182] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) is an archetypical genetic syndrome that is characterized by intellectual disability, well-defined facial features, upper limb anomalies and atypical growth, among numerous other signs and symptoms. It is caused by variants in any one of seven genes, all of which have a structural or regulatory function in the cohesin complex. Although recent advances in next-generation sequencing have improved molecular diagnostics, marked heterogeneity exists in clinical and molecular diagnostic approaches and care practices worldwide. Here, we outline a series of recommendations that document the consensus of a group of international experts on clinical diagnostic criteria, both for classic CdLS and non-classic CdLS phenotypes, molecular investigations, long-term management and care planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonie D Kline
- Harvey Institute of Human Genetics, Greater Baltimore Medical Centre, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Joanna F Moss
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Angelo Selicorni
- Department of Paediatrics, Presidio S. Femro, ASST Lariana, Como, Italy
| | - Anne-Marie Bisgaard
- Kennedy Centre, Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Matthew A Deardorff
- Division of Human Genetics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, and Department of Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Peter M Gillett
- GI Department, Royal Hospital for Sick Children, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Stacey L Ishman
- Departments of Otolaryngology and Pulmonary Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Centre, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Lynne M Kerr
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Paediatrics, University of Utah Medical Centre, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Alex V Levin
- Paediatric Ophthalmology and Ocular Genetics, Wills Eye Hospital, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Paul A Mulder
- Jonx Department of Youth Mental Health and Autism, Lentis Psychiatric Institute, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Feliciano J Ramos
- Unit of Clinical Genetics, Paediatrics, University Clinic Hospital 'Lozano Blesa' CIBERER-GCV02 and ISS-Aragón, Department of Pharmacology-Physiology and Paediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Jolanta Wierzba
- Department of Paediatrics, Haematology and Oncology, Department of General Nursery, Medical University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Paola Francesca Ajmone
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatric Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - David Axtell
- CdLS Foundation UK and Ireland, The Tower, North Stifford, Grays, Essex, UK
| | - Natalie Blagowidow
- Harvey Institute of Human Genetics, Greater Baltimore Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Anna Cereda
- Department of Paediatrics, ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Antonella Costantino
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatric Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Valerie Cormier-Daire
- Department of Genetics, INSERM UMR1163, Université Paris Descartes-Sorbonne Paris Cité, Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, Paris, France
| | - David FitzPatrick
- Human Genetics Unit, Medical and Developmental Genetics, University of Edinburgh Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Marco Grados
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, John Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Laura Groves
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Whitney Guthrie
- Centre for Autism Research, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Sylvia Huisman
- Department of Paediatrics, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Frank J Kaiser
- Section for Functional Genetics, Institute for Human Genetics, University of Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | | | - Mary Levis
- Wicomico County Board of Education, Salisbury, MD, USA
| | - Milena Mariani
- Clinical Paediatric Genetics Unit, Paediatrics Clinics, MBBM Foundation, S. Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Joseph P McCleery
- Centre for Autism Research, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Leonie A Menke
- Department of Paediatrics, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Julia O'Connor
- Kennedy Krieger Institute, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Chris Oliver
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Juan Pie
- Unit of Clinical Genetics, Paediatrics, University Clinic Hospital 'Lozano Blesa' CIBERER-GCV02 and ISS-Aragón, Department of Pharmacology-Physiology and Paediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Sigrid Piening
- Jonx Department of Youth Mental Health and Autism, Lentis Psychiatric Institute, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Carol J Potter
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nationwide Children's, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Ana L Quaglio
- Genética Médica, Hospital del Este, Eva Perón, Tucumán, Argentina
| | - Egbert Redeker
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - David Richman
- Department of Educational Psychology and Leadership, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, USA
| | - Claudia Rigamonti
- Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatric Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Cà Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - Angell Shi
- The Sidney Kimmel Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Zeynep Tümer
- Kennedy Centre, Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Ingrid D C Van Balkom
- Jonx Department of Youth Mental Health and Autism, Lentis Psychiatric Institute, Groningen, Netherlands
- Rob Giel Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Raoul C Hennekam
- Department of Paediatrics, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
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15
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Crawford H, Moss J, Stinton C, Singla G, Oliver C. Overactivity, impulsivity and repetitive behaviour in males with fragile X syndrome: contrasting developmental trajectories in those with and without elevated autism symptoms. JOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY RESEARCH : JIDR 2018; 62:672-683. [PMID: 29722449 DOI: 10.1111/jir.12488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2017] [Revised: 02/07/2018] [Accepted: 03/10/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hyperactivity and repetitive behaviour are characteristic features of fragile X syndrome (FXS). However, little is known about the influence of autism symptomatology on how these characteristics develop over time. We investigate the profiles and developmental trajectories of overactivity, impulsivity and repetitive behaviour, in males with FXS over three time points spanning 8 years. METHOD Participants formed two subgroups, those who displayed elevated symptoms of autism at Time 1 (n = 37; Mage = 16.32; age range = 6.61-43.51) and those who did not (n = 32; Mage = 8.43; age range = 8.94-47.49). RESULTS Participants without elevated symptoms of autism showed a reduction in impulsivity and repetitive questioning over time, whereas those with elevated symptoms of autism did not. Differences between the two subgroups in several topographies of repetitive behaviour emerged at Time 3 only. CONCLUSIONS These results further understanding of the relationship between autistic phenomenology and behavioural characteristics in FXS.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Crawford
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry, UK
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - J Moss
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, London, UK
| | - C Stinton
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - G Singla
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - C Oliver
- Cerebra Centre for Neurodevelopmental Disorders, School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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16
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Adams D, Clarke S, Griffith G, Howlin P, Moss J, Petty J, Tunnicliffe P, Oliver C. Mental Health and Well-Being in Mothers of Children With Rare Genetic Syndromes Showing Chronic Challenging Behavior: A Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal Study. AMERICAN JOURNAL ON INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2018; 123:241-253. [PMID: 29671635 DOI: 10.1352/1944-7558-123.3.241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
It is well documented that mothers of children with challenging behavior (CB) experience elevated levels of stress and that this persists over time, but less is known about the experience of mothers of children with rare genetic syndromes. This article describes 2 studies, 1 cross-sectional and 1 longitudinal, comparing well-being in mothers of children with Angelman, Cornelia de Lange and Cri du Chat syndrome who have either shown chronic CB ( n = 18) or low/no CB ( n = 26) in the preceding 7 years. The presence of chronic, long-term CB increased maternal stress but not depression or anxiety, and did not influence positive well-being. Stress relating specifically to their child's genetic syndrome reduced with age, highlighting the need for further exploration in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawn Adams
- Dawn Adams, Griffith University, Queensland, Australia and University of Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Gemma Griffith
- Dawn Adams, Griffith University, Queensland, Australia and University of Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Jo Moss
- Jo Moss, University of Birmingham, UK
| | - Jane Petty
- Jane Petty, University of Birmingham, UK and Kings College, London, UK
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17
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Budimirovic DB, Berry-Kravis E, Erickson CA, Hall SS, Hessl D, Reiss AL, King MK, Abbeduto L, Kaufmann WE. Updated report on tools to measure outcomes of clinical trials in fragile X syndrome. J Neurodev Disord 2017; 9:14. [PMID: 28616097 PMCID: PMC5467057 DOI: 10.1186/s11689-017-9193-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2016] [Accepted: 02/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Fragile X syndrome (FXS) has been the neurodevelopmental disorder with the most active translation of preclinical breakthroughs into clinical trials. This process has led to a critical assessment of outcome measures, which resulted in a comprehensive review published in 2013. Nevertheless, the disappointing outcome of several recent phase III drug trials in FXS, and parallel efforts at evaluating behavioral endpoints for trials in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), has emphasized the need for re-assessing outcome measures and revising recommendations for FXS. METHODS After performing an extensive database search (PubMed, Food and Drug Administration (FDA)/National Institutes of Health (NIH)'s www.ClinicalTrials.gov, etc.) to determine progress since 2013, members of the Working Groups who published the 2013 Report evaluated the available outcome measures for FXS and related neurodevelopmental disorders using the COSMIN grading system of levels of evidence. The latter has also been applied to a British survey of endpoints for ASD. In addition, we also generated an informal classification of outcome measures for use in FXS intervention studies as instruments appropriate to detect shorter- or longer-term changes. RESULTS To date, a total of 22 double-blind controlled clinical trials in FXS have been identified through www.ClinicalTrials.gov and an extensive literature search. The vast majority of these FDA/NIH-registered clinical trials has been completed between 2008 and 2015 and has targeted the core excitatory/inhibitory imbalance present in FXS and other neurodevelopmental disorders. Limited data exist on reliability and validity for most tools used to measure cognitive, behavioral, and other problems in FXS in these trials and other studies. Overall, evidence for most tools supports a moderate tool quality grading. Data on sensitivity to treatment, currently under evaluation, could improve ratings for some cognitive and behavioral tools. Some progress has also been made at identifying promising biomarkers, mainly on blood-based and neurophysiological measures. CONCLUSION Despite the tangible progress in implementing clinical trials in FXS, the increasing data on measurement properties of endpoints, and the ongoing process of new tool development, the vast majority of outcome measures are at the moderate quality level with limited information on reliability, validity, and sensitivity to treatment. This situation is not unique to FXS, since reviews of endpoints for ASD have arrived at similar conclusions. These findings, in conjunction with the predominance of parent-based measures particularly in the behavioral domain, indicate that endpoint development in FXS needs to continue with an emphasis on more objective measures (observational, direct testing, biomarkers) that reflect meaningful improvements in quality of life. A major continuous challenge is the development of measurement tools concurrently with testing drug safety and efficacy in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dejan B. Budimirovic
- Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Kennedy Krieger Institute and Child Psychiatry, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 716 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21205 USA
| | - Elizabeth Berry-Kravis
- Departments of Pediatrics, Neurological Sciences, Biochemistry, Rush University Medical Center, 1725 West Harrison, Suite 718, Chicago, IL 60612 USA
| | - Craig A. Erickson
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center and the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 3333 Burnet Avenue MLC 4002, Cincinnati, OH 45229 USA
| | - Scott S. Hall
- Division of Interdisciplinary Brain Sciences, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, 401 Quarry Road, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
| | - David Hessl
- MIND Institute and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California Davis Medical Center, 2825 50th Street, Sacramento, CA 95817 USA
| | - Allan L. Reiss
- Division of Interdisciplinary Brain Sciences, Departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Radiology and Pediatrics, Stanford University, 401 Quarry Road, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
| | - Margaret K. King
- Autism & Developmental Medicine Institute, Geisinger Health System, Present address: Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation, US Medical, One Health Plaza, East Hanover, NJ 07936 USA
| | - Leonard Abbeduto
- MIND Institute and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of California Davis Medical Center, 2825 50th Street, Sacramento, CA 95817 USA
| | - Walter E. Kaufmann
- Center for Translational Research, Greenwood Genetic Center, 113 Gregor Mendel Circle, Greenwood, SC 29646 USA
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115 USA
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18
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS) is a rare genetic syndrome with clinical manifestations due to multiple affected organ systems including limbs, gastrointestinal, skin, and central nervous systems. Although the genetic basis of CdLS is now uncovered, how behavioral manifestations are associated with genetic and brain differences are less well understood. The current focused review systematically describes the main behavioral observations to date in individuals with CdLS, which have a significant impact on quality of life and adaptive functioning. RECENT FINDINGS The CdLS behavioral phenotype includes autistic traits as a prominent feature; however, brain imaging studies, required to understand gene-brain-behavior connections in CdLS, are scarce. Moreover, autistic features in CdLS have a greater emphasis on repetitive behaviors, including self-injurious behaviors (SIB) and expressive communication deficits, different that the core social deficit seen in idiopathic autism. Current data strongly support the use of CdLS as a model disease for repetitive behaviors and associated developmental delay manifestations. SUMMARY Behavioral phenotype characteristics in CdLS point to a preponderance of repetitive clinical phenomena as well as expressive verbal deficits that ought to inform specific treatment approaches in CdLS. In particular, repetitive behaviors associated with self-injury are of high negative impact on the quality of life for individuals with CdLS and their families. Treatment approaches geared to manage repetitive behaviors and self-injurious behaviors in CdLS are required in this developmental condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Grados
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baltimore, MD
| | - Hassan Alvi
- Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan
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