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Childhood autism, feeding problems and failure to thrive in early infancy. Seven case studies

Daphne V Keen1

  • 1St. George's Healthcare NHS Trust, St. George's Hospital, Rm 2.35, 2nd Floor Clare House, Blackshaw Road, London SW17 0QT, UK. daphne.keen@stgeorges.nhs.uk

European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
|September 19, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Severe feeding problems in infancy may indicate underlying autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children, leading to failure to thrive (FTT). Early identification and multifaceted interventions are crucial for addressing this complex issue.

Area of Science:

  • Developmental Psychology
  • Pediatric Nutrition
  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Background:

  • Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often exhibit feeding difficulties, yet their link to early failure to thrive (FTT) is under-researched.
  • Existing classifications may not adequately capture the severity and early onset of feeding issues in ASD.

Observation:

  • This paper reviews literature connecting feeding problems and growth abnormalities with developmental and psychiatric conditions.
  • Seven cases of children with autism presented with growth failure due to severe feeding problems originating in their first year of life.

Findings:

  • Severe or atypical feeding problems and FTT in infancy can be an early indicator of potential ASD.
  • The etiology of feeding disorders in autism involves a complex interplay of sensory, cognitive, and emotional dysfunctions, interacting with attachment and behavioral factors.

Implications:

  • Healthcare professionals should consider ASD in infants presenting with severe feeding issues and FTT.
  • Effective treatment necessitates a novel, multifaceted approach addressing biological vulnerabilities and behavioral aspects of feeding disorders in autism.

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