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Sanderson C, Verdellen C, Debes N, Tárnok Z, van de Griendt J, Zimmerman-Brenner S, Murphy T. Addressing co-occurring conditions in behavioural therapy for tic disorders: a review and guideline. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2024; 33:2111-2127. [PMID: 36283996 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-022-02097-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Co-occurring psychiatric conditions are very common in tic disorders and Tourette syndrome. These additional symptoms are often detrimental to quality of life and may impact upon the implementation and efficacy of evidence-based behavioural therapies (BT) for tics. Combining a review of the available literature, relevant theory, and expert clinical practice, we present a guideline for implementing behavioural and psychosocial interventions when common comorbidities are present. These include attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, disruptive behaviour, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and depression. Practical recommendations are provided for assessment, formulation and management of specific and multiple comorbidities in BT for both children and adults. Despite comorbidities being common in tic disorders, few studies have comprehensively addressed how they may influence the efficacy or implementation of existing therapies or how such treatments may need to be modified or sequenced. We outline recommendations for future research, including randomised control trials of BT for those with specific or multiple comorbidities, as well as adequately powered sub-group analyses within larger scale trials or naturalistic study designs. Transdiagnostic models of psychiatric disorders and treatment, including modular cross-diagnostic therapies, which recognise the dimensionality of psychiatric disorders are also highlighted as an important focus in treatment development in tic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Sanderson
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health (ICH), 30 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1EH, UK.
- Psychological and Mental Health Services, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, Great Ormond Street, London, WC1N 3JH, UK.
| | - Cara Verdellen
- PsyQ Nijmegen, Parnassia Group, Sint Annastraat 263, 6525 GR, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- TicXperts, Julianaweg 7, 6666 CT, Heteren, The Netherlands
| | - Nanette Debes
- Department of Paediatrics, Herlev University Hospital, Borgmester Ib Juuls Vej 25C, 3rd floor, 2730, Herlev, Denmark
| | - Zsanett Tárnok
- VADASKERT Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Hospital and Outpatient Clinic, Lipotmezei str 5, Budapest, 1021, Hungary
| | | | - Sharon Zimmerman-Brenner
- School of Psychology, Reichman University (IDC Herzliya), P.O. Box 167, 4610101, Herzliya, Israel
| | - Tara Murphy
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health (ICH), 30 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
- Psychological and Mental Health Services, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Trust, Great Ormond Street, London, WC1N 3JH, UK
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Cavanna AE, Purpura G, Riva A, Nacinovich R. Co-morbid tics and stereotypies: a systematic literature review. Neurol Sci 2024; 45:477-483. [PMID: 37775616 PMCID: PMC10791822 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-023-07095-y] [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: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tics and stereotypies are childhood-onset repetitive behaviours that can pose significant diagnostic challenges in clinical practice. Both tics and stereotypies are characterised by a complex co-morbidity profile, however little is known about the co-occurrence of these hyperkinetic disorders in the same patient population. OBJECTIVE This review aimed to assess the relationship between tics and stereotypies when these conditions present in co-morbidity. METHODS We conducted a systematic literature review of original studies on co-morbid tics and stereotypies, according to the standards outlined in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. RESULTS Our literature search identified six studies of suitable sample size (n ≥ 40) presenting data on the association between tics and stereotypies in otherwise typically developing patients. A considerable proportion (23%) of patients diagnosed with stereotypic movement disorder present with co-morbid tics (range 18-43%). Likewise, the prevalence of primary stereotypies is increased in patients with tic disorders such as Tourette syndrome (8%, range 6-12%). DISCUSSION Tics and stereotypies can often develop in co-morbidity. The association of tics and stereotypies in the same patient has practical implications, in consideration of the different treatment approaches. Future research should focus on the assessment and management of both conditions, particularly in special populations (e.g. patients with pervasive developmental disorders).
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea E Cavanna
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, National Centre for Mental Health, BSMHFT and University of Birmingham, 25 Vincent Drive, Birmingham, B15 2FG, UK.
- Sobell Department of Motor Neuroscience and Movement Disorders, Institute of Neurology and University College London, London, UK.
- School of Life and Health Sciences, Aston Brain Centre, Aston University, Birmingham, UK.
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy.
| | - Giulia Purpura
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Riva
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
- Department of Child Neuropsychiatry, IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
| | - Renata Nacinovich
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
- Department of Child Neuropsychiatry, IRCCS San Gerardo dei Tintori, Monza, Italy
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Differential diagnosis between autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disorders with emphasis on the preschool period. World J Pediatr 2022:10.1007/s12519-022-00629-y. [PMID: 36282408 DOI: 10.1007/s12519-022-00629-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurodevelopmental disorders are a heterogeneous group of conditions that manifest as delays or deviations in the acquisition of expected developmental milestones and behavioral changes. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in communication and social interaction and by repetitive and restricted patterns of behavior, interests and activities. The aim of this review is to discuss the clinical features of the differential diagnoses of ASD that are prevalent among preschoolers, focusing on their similarities and disparities. DATA SOURCES The international medical literature search was conducted using PubMed and was revised regarding the subject using single and/or combined keywords as follows: differential diagnosis, preschoolers, diagnostic challenge, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, intellectual disability, high abilities/giftedness, childhood apraxia of speech, social communication disorder, Landau-Kleffner syndrome, stereotyped movement disorder and excessive screen time. RESULTS We describe conditions commonly found in clinical practice, taking ASD as a reference. We addressed converging and divergent aspects of behavior, cognition, communication, language, speech, socialization, and stereotypes for the diagnosis of ASD and other disorders identified as potential differential or comorbid diagnoses. CONCLUSIONS The ranking and characterization of symptoms appear to be essential for better understanding the underlying common ground between children with developmental disorders and children with ASD, thus properly diagnosing and directing social, professional, or medication interventions. This detailed discussion adds to the literature since, although ASD differential diagnoses are frequently mentioned and discussed in textbooks and journal articles, they rarely occupy a prominent place as we aimed herein.
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Bhatoa RS, Malik O, Robinson S, Hedderly T. Clinical management of complex motor stereotypies. Arch Dis Child 2022; 107:861-865. [PMID: 34725047 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2021-322624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
This paper will review complex motor stereotypies and provide a summary of the current proposed treatment pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raj Seraya Bhatoa
- Children's Neurosciences, Tics and Neurodevelopmental Movements Service (TANDeM), Evelina London Children's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Osman Malik
- Children's Neurosciences, Tics and Neurodevelopmental Movements Service (TANDeM), Evelina London Children's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Sally Robinson
- Children's Neurosciences, Tics and Neurodevelopmental Movements Service (TANDeM), Evelina London Children's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Tammy Hedderly
- Children's Neurosciences, Tics and Neurodevelopmental Movements Service (TANDeM), Evelina London Children's Hospital, London, UK
- Child Health Children's Academic Group, King's College London, London, UK
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Grossi E, Caminada E, Goffredo M, Vescovo B, Castrignano T, Piscitelli D, Valagussa G, Franceschini M, Vanzulli F. Patterns of Restricted and Repetitive Behaviors in Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Cross-Sectional Video Recording Study. Preliminary Report. Brain Sci 2021; 11:678. [PMID: 34064245 PMCID: PMC8224357 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11060678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several instruments have been proposed to investigate restricted, repetitive behaviors (RRBs) in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Systematic video observations may overcome questionnaire and interview limitations to investigate RRBs. This study aimed to analyze stereotypic patterns through video recordings and to determine the correlation between the number and appearance of RRBs to ASD severity. METHODS Twenty health professionals wearing a body cam recorded 780 specific RRBs during everyday activities of 67 individuals with ASD (mean age: 14.2 ± 3.72 years) for three months. Each stereotypy was classified according to its complexity pattern (i.e., simple or complex) based on body parts and sensory channels involved. RESULTS The RRBs spectrum for each subject ranged from one to 33 different patterns (mean: 11.6 ± 6.82). Individuals with a lower number of stereotypies shown a lower ASD severity compared to subjects with a higher number of stereotypies (p = 0.044). No significant differences were observed between individuals exhibiting simple (n = 40) and complex patterns (n = 27) of stereotypies on ASD severity, age, sex, and the number of stereotypes. CONCLUSIONS This study represents the first attempt to systematically document expression patterns of RRBs with a data-driven approach. This may provide a better understanding of the pathophysiology and management of RRBs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enzo Grossi
- Autism Research Unit, “Villa Santa Maria” Foundation, 22038 Tavernerio, Italy; (E.G.); (E.C.); (B.V.); (T.C.); (G.V.); (F.V.)
| | - Elisa Caminada
- Autism Research Unit, “Villa Santa Maria” Foundation, 22038 Tavernerio, Italy; (E.G.); (E.C.); (B.V.); (T.C.); (G.V.); (F.V.)
| | - Michela Goffredo
- Neurorehabilitation Research Laboratory, Department of Neurological and Rehabilitation Sciences, IRCSS San Raffaele Pisana, 00163 Rome, Italy;
| | - Beatrice Vescovo
- Autism Research Unit, “Villa Santa Maria” Foundation, 22038 Tavernerio, Italy; (E.G.); (E.C.); (B.V.); (T.C.); (G.V.); (F.V.)
| | - Tristana Castrignano
- Autism Research Unit, “Villa Santa Maria” Foundation, 22038 Tavernerio, Italy; (E.G.); (E.C.); (B.V.); (T.C.); (G.V.); (F.V.)
| | - Daniele Piscitelli
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, 20126 Milano, Italy;
- School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3G 1Y5, Canada
| | - Giulio Valagussa
- Autism Research Unit, “Villa Santa Maria” Foundation, 22038 Tavernerio, Italy; (E.G.); (E.C.); (B.V.); (T.C.); (G.V.); (F.V.)
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, 20126 Milano, Italy;
| | - Marco Franceschini
- Neurorehabilitation Research Laboratory, Department of Neurological and Rehabilitation Sciences, IRCSS San Raffaele Pisana, 00163 Rome, Italy;
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele University, 00163 Rome, Italy
| | - Franco Vanzulli
- Autism Research Unit, “Villa Santa Maria” Foundation, 22038 Tavernerio, Italy; (E.G.); (E.C.); (B.V.); (T.C.); (G.V.); (F.V.)
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Schimmenti A, Somer E, Regis M. Maladaptive daydreaming: Towards a nosological definition. ANNALES MEDICO-PSYCHOLOGIQUES 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.amp.2019.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Melo C, Ruano L, Jorge J, Pinto Ribeiro T, Oliveira G, Azevedo L, Temudo T. Prevalence and determinants of motor stereotypies in autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis. AUTISM : THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2019; 24:569-590. [PMID: 31552746 DOI: 10.1177/1362361319869118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Stereotypies are frequently reported in people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) but remain one of the less explained phenomena. We aimed to describe, through a systematic review and a meta-analysis, the prevalence of motor stereotypies in ASD and study the factors that influence this prevalence. Our literature search included MEDLINE, Scopus, and PsycINFO databases. Quality and risk of bias were assessed. Thirty-seven studies were included and the median prevalence of motor stereotypies in ASD was 51.8%, ranging from 21.9% to 97.5%. The most frequent determinants associated with a higher number of stereotypies in ASD were a younger age, lower intelligence quotient, and a greater severity of ASD. Moreover, gender did not seem to influence the prevalence of stereotypies. Meta-analytic analysis showed that lower IQ and autism diagnosis (independent of IQ) are associated with a higher prevalence of motor stereotypies (odds ratio = 2.5 and 4.7, respectively). Limitations of the reviewed literature include the use of convenience samples, with small sizes and heterogeneous inclusion criteria, and the predominance of high-functioning autism individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cláudia Melo
- Pediatric Department, Centro Hospitalar Universitário São João, Porto, Portugal.,Centre for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), Porto, Portugal
| | - Luís Ruano
- Neurology Department, Centro Hospitalar de Entre Douro e Vouga, Santa Maria da Feira, Portugal.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,EPIUnit - Institute of Public Health, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Joana Jorge
- Child Psychiatry Department, Centro Hospitalar de Vila Nova de Gaia/Espinho, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
| | | | - Guiomar Oliveira
- Autism Unit from Child Developmental Center and Centro de Investigação e Formação Clinica, Hospital Pediátrico, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,University Clinic of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Luís Azevedo
- Centre for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), Porto, Portugal.,Department of Community Medicine, Information and Health Decision Sciences (MEDCIDS), Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Teresa Temudo
- Pediatric Neurology Department, Centro Materno-Infantil, Centro Hospitalar do Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Developmental Motor Profile in Preschool Children with Primary Stereotypic Movement Disorder. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 2019:1427294. [PMID: 30895189 PMCID: PMC6393901 DOI: 10.1155/2019/1427294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Revised: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Aim Different neuropsychological dysfunctions have been described in children with primary Stereotypic Movement Disorder (SMD), mainly attention or motor coordination problems. Up to now with no study has evaluated psychomotor functions in preschoolers primary SMD. The aim of this observational study was to gather information on the motor profiles of SMD patients in this age range in comparison with typically developing children. Patients and Methods Twenty-six children (four girls) aged 36 to 76 months (mean= 53 ±10) with primary SMD were assessed by a structured evaluation including the Movement Assessment Battery for Children-Second Edition (MABC-2), the Beery-Buktenica Developmental test of Visual-Motor Integration (VMI), the Repetitive Behaviour Scale-Revised (RBS-R), the Motor Severity Stereotypy Scale (MSSS), and the Child Behaviour Checklist (CBCL). The diagnoses of Intellectual Disability or Autism Spectrum Disorder were exclusion criteria from the study. A comparison group of twenty-seven (four girls) typically developing children without stereotypies aged 36 to 59 months (mean= 48 ±7) was also examined. Results The MABC-2 total score was lower than 15th percentile in fifteen children with SMD (58%); the worst performances were observed in Balance and Manual Dexterity subtests. The motor coordination score of VMI was lower than 15th percentile in ten children (38%). The majority of the children with low scores at MABC-2 also had low scores at the motor coordination subscale of VMI. MABC-2 standard scores of the clinical group were significantly lower than those of controls on MABC-2 Total, Balance, and Ball Skills subtests. Conclusion The finding of widespread dysfunction of gross and fine motor abilities in preschoolers with primary SMD seems to delineate a peculiar phenotype and could provide new approaches to the management of this neurodevelopment disorder.
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Tics and stereotypies: A comparative clinical review. Parkinsonism Relat Disord 2019; 59:117-124. [DOI: 10.1016/j.parkreldis.2019.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2018] [Revised: 12/28/2018] [Accepted: 02/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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Abstract
This review summarizes motor stereotypies in terms of description, prevalence, pathophysiology, diagnosis and management. They are fixed and persistent movements. Stereotypies begin before 3 years of age and continue into adulthood. Primary motor stereotypies occur in children of normal intelligence, whereas secondary stereotypies ensue in the setting of an additional diagnosis such as autism spectrum disorder or other neurologic disorders. They are highly associated with comorbidities such as anxiety, obsessive-compulsive symptoms, inattention, and tics. The pathophysiology of stereotypies involves fronto-striatal overactive dopaminergic pathways, and underactive cholinergic and GABAergic inhibitory pathways. No genetic markers have been identified despite a clear genetic predisposition. Behavioral therapy is the principle treatment. Future studies will focus on identifying genetic markers, and on better understanding the functional and structural neurobiology of these movements.
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Bigelsen J, Lehrfeld JM, Jopp DS, Somer E. Maladaptive daydreaming: Evidence for an under-researched mental health disorder. Conscious Cogn 2016; 42:254-266. [PMID: 27082138 DOI: 10.1016/j.concog.2016.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2015] [Revised: 03/19/2016] [Accepted: 03/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
This study explores the recently described phenomenon of Maladaptive Daydreaming (MD) and attempts to enhance the understanding of its features. It documents the experiences of 340 self-identified maladaptive daydreamers who spend excessive amounts of time engaged in mental fantasy worlds, in comparison to 107 controls. Our sample included a total of 447 individuals, aged 13-78, from 45 countries who responded to online announcements. Participants answered quantitative and qualitative questions about their daydreaming habits and completed seven questionnaires assessing mental health symptoms. Findings demonstrated that MD differs significantly from normative daydreaming in terms of quantity, content, experience, controllability, distress, and interference with life functioning. Results also demonstrated that Maladaptive Daydreamers endorsed significantly higher rates of attention deficit, obsessive compulsive and dissociation symptoms than controls. In sum, findings suggested that MD represents an under-acknowledged clinical phenomenon that causes distress, hinders life functioning and requires more scientific and clinical attention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Daniela S Jopp
- University of Lausanne, and National Centre of Competence in Research LIVES "Overcoming Vulnerability: Live Course Perspectives", Switzerland
| | - Eli Somer
- School of Social Work, University of Haifa, Israel
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Cardona F, Valente F, Miraglia D, D'Ardia C, Baglioni V, Chiarotti F. Developmental Profile and Diagnoses in Children Presenting with Motor Stereotypies. Front Pediatr 2016; 4:126. [PMID: 27933285 PMCID: PMC5120120 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2016.00126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2016] [Accepted: 11/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Motor stereotypies represent a typical example of the difficulty in distinguishing non-clinical behaviors (physiological and transient) from symptoms or among different disorders ["primary stereotypies," associated with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD), intellectual disabilities, genetic syndromes, and sensory impairment]. The aim of this study was to obtain an accurate assessment on the relationship between stereotypies and neurodevelopmental disorders. METHODS We studied 23 children (3 girls), aged 36-95 months, who requested a consultation due to the persistence or increased severity of motor stereotypies. None of the patients had a previous diagnosis of ASD. The assessment included the Motor Severity Stereotypy Scale (MSSS), the Repetitive Behavior Scale-Revised (RBS-R), the Raven's Colored Progressive Matrices, the Child Behavior CheckList for ages 1½-5 or 4-18 (CBCL), the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS), and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule-second edition (ADOS 2). RESULTS All patients were showing motor stereotypies for periods of time varying from 6 to 77 months. The MSSS showed that each child had a limited number of stereotypies; their frequency and intensity were mild. The interference of stereotypies was variable; the impairment in daily life was mild. The RBS-R scores were positive for the subscale of "stereotypic behaviors" in all children. Moreover, several children presented other repetitive behaviors, mainly "ritualistic behavior" and "sameness behavior." All patients showed a normal cognitive level. The CBCL evidenced behavioral problems in 22% of the children: internalizing problems, attention, and withdrawn were the main complaints. On the SRS, all but one of the tested patients obtained clinical scores in the clinical range for at least one area. On the ADOS 2, 4 patients obtained scores indicating a moderate level of ASD symptoms, 4 had a mild level, and 15 showed no or minimal signs of ASD. DISCUSSION Motor stereotypies in children with normal cognitive level represent a challenging diagnostic issue for which a finely tailored assessment is mandatory in order to define a precise developmental profile. Thus, careful and cautious use of standardized tests is warranted to avoid misdiagnosis. Furthermore, it is hard to consider motor stereotypies, even the primary ones, exclusively as a movement disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Cardona
- Dipartimento di Pediatria e Neuropsichiatria Infantile, Università degli Studi di Roma "La Sapienza" , Rome , Italy
| | - Francesca Valente
- Dipartimento di Pediatria e Neuropsichiatria Infantile, Università degli Studi di Roma "La Sapienza" , Rome , Italy
| | - Daniela Miraglia
- Dipartimento di Pediatria e Neuropsichiatria Infantile, Università degli Studi di Roma "La Sapienza" , Rome , Italy
| | | | - Valentina Baglioni
- Dipartimento di Pediatria e Neuropsichiatria Infantile, Università degli Studi di Roma "La Sapienza" , Rome , Italy
| | - Flavia Chiarotti
- Dipartimento di Biologia Cellulare e Neuroscienze, Istituto Superiore di Sanità , Rome , Italy
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