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Electroencephalogram abnormalities in children with autism spectrum disorders
Judy A Reinhold1, Cynthia A Molloy, Patricia Manning-Courtney
1The Kelly O'Leary Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders, Division of Developmental Disorders at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, 3333 Burnet Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45229-3039, USA. judy.reinhold@cchmc.org
Summary
Abnormal electroencephalogram (EEG) results were found in 27% of children evaluated for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). These findings highlight the need for continued medical monitoring in children with ASD, particularly those with abnormal EEG results.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Pediatrics
- Clinical Neurology
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects children's development and social interaction.
- Electroencephalogram (EEG) is a key diagnostic tool for evaluating neurological abnormalities in children with ASD.
- Seizure risk in children with ASD ranges from 7% to 42%.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the prevalence of abnormal EEG findings in children undergoing evaluation for ASD.
- To identify specific EEG abnormalities and their distribution in this pediatric population.
- To underscore the importance of medical follow-up for children with ASD and abnormal EEG results.
Main Methods:
- EEG studies were performed on a subgroup of children evaluated for ASD, adhering to established practice parameters.
- A total of 316 children were evaluated, with abnormal EEG results recorded in 85 (27%).
- Analysis of abnormal EEG findings included categorizing abnormalities (epileptiform, slowing) and their locations (temporal, central, frontal, occipital).
Main Results:
- Abnormal EEG results were observed in 27% (85 out of 316) of children evaluated for ASD.
- Epileptiform abnormalities were the most common finding (65% of abnormal EEGs), followed by slowing (15%).
- Focality of epileptiform findings included temporal (30%), central (28%), frontal (23%), and occipital (8%) areas.
Conclusions:
- Abnormal EEG findings are common in children evaluated for ASD.
- Epileptiform abnormalities are the predominant EEG finding in this cohort.
- These results emphasize the necessity of ongoing medical surveillance for children with ASD, especially those with abnormal EEG results, to manage potential neurological comorbidities.