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One hundred males with Asperger syndrome: a clinical study of background and associated factors

Mats Cederlund1, Christopher Gillberg

  • 1Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Queen Silvia's Hospital for Children and Adolescents, University of Göteborg, Sweden. mats.cederlund@vgregion.se

Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology
|October 12, 2004
PubMed

Insights

This study on young males with Asperger syndrome (AS) found a high rate of non-verbal learning disability and a strong genetic link to autism spectrum disorder. Many also experienced prenatal and perinatal issues, suggesting complex risk factors.

Area of Science:

  • Neurodevelopmental disorders
  • Clinical psychology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Asperger syndrome (AS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder.
  • Understanding associated factors in AS is crucial for early intervention.
  • Previous research has explored various etiological factors in AS.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the background and associated factors in young males diagnosed with Asperger syndrome.
  • To analyze medical records and neuropsychological data of individuals with AS.
  • To identify common risk factors and characteristics within this population.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of medical records and neuropsychological test data.
  • Inclusion of 100 males aged 5.5 to 24.5 years with a clinical diagnosis of AS.
  • Analysis of data to identify patterns in learning disabilities, family history, and perinatal factors.

Main Results:

  • A high prevalence (51%) of non-verbal learning disability (V-IQ > P-IQ + 15) was observed.
  • Strong association with autism spectrum problems in close relatives.
  • High rates of prenatal and perinatal complications, including prematurity and postmaturity.
  • A subgroup with macrocephalus was identified.
  • No association found between AS and low body mass index.

Conclusions:

  • Non-verbal learning disability is a significant characteristic in a substantial portion of young males with AS.
  • A combination of genetic predisposition and prenatal/perinatal factors likely contributes to AS development.
  • Right-hemisphere brain dysfunction is not a core feature of AS in this cohort.

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