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Iron deficiency in autism and Asperger syndrome
1Children Centre, Royal Glamorgan Hospital, Mid Glamorgan, UK. abbas.latif@pr-tr.wales.nhs.uk
Insights
This study found a high prevalence of iron deficiency in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This deficiency may worsen communication and behavioral challenges in affected children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Iron deficiency, with or without anemia, can negatively impact cognitive development and behavior.
- Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and Asperger syndrome may be at increased risk for nutritional deficiencies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of iron deficiency in children diagnosed with autism and Asperger syndrome.
- To explore the potential impact of iron deficiency on the clinical presentation and management of these neurodevelopmental conditions.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of full blood count and serum ferritin levels.
- Inclusion of 96 children: 52 with autism and 44 with Asperger syndrome.
Main Results:
- A significant proportion of children with autism (12 out of 23) showed iron deficiency, with 6 having iron deficiency anemia.
- In contrast, only 3 out of 22 children with Asperger syndrome had iron deficiency, and 2 had iron deficiency anemia.
- The high prevalence in the autism group suggests a potential link to their core symptoms.
Conclusions:
- Iron deficiency is highly prevalent in children with autism.
- This deficiency may exacerbate communication and behavioral impairments in children with ASD.
- Further research is warranted to investigate the influence of iron status on ASD guidelines and treatment strategies.
Abstract:
This research considers the prevalence of iron deficiency in children with autism and Asperger syndrome and examines whether this will influence guidelines and treatment. Retrospective analysis of the full blood count and, as far as available, serum ferritin measurements of 96 children (52 with autism and 44 with Asperger syndrome) was undertaken. Six of the autistic group were shown to have iron deficiency anaemia and, of the 23 autistic children who had serum ferritin measured, 12 were iron deficient. Only two of the Asperger group had iron deficiency anaemia and, of the 22 children who had their serum ferritin measured, only three were iron deficient. Iron deficiency, with or without anaemia, can impair cognition and affect and is associated with developmental slowing in infants and mood changes and poor concentration in children. This study showed a very high prevalence of iron deficiency in children with autism, which could potentially compromise further their communication and behavioural impairments.