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Published on: June 21, 2021
Autistic disorder in 2 children with mitochondrial disorders
Chang-Yong Tsao1, Jerry R Mendell
1Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA. tsaoc@pediatrics.ohio-state.edu
Journal of Child Neurology
|September 25, 2007
Summary
This study highlights two children with mitochondrial disorders linked to autistic disorder. It emphasizes the importance of considering secondary diagnoses in autism spectrum disorder cases.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Genetics
- Developmental Pediatrics
Background:
- Autistic disorder is a complex neurodevelopmental condition with diverse etiologies.
- Idiopathic cases represent the majority, but secondary diagnoses can occur.
- Mitochondrial disorders are increasingly recognized as potential contributors to neurodevelopmental challenges.
Observation:
- This report details two pediatric cases of autistic disorder co-occurring with diagnosed mitochondrial disorders.
- Both children met the diagnostic criteria for autistic disorder as per the DSM-IV-TR.
- The presentation underscores a potential link between specific genetic conditions and autism spectrum disorder.
Findings:
- The cases demonstrate a correlation between mitochondrial dysfunction and autistic disorder.
- This association suggests that mitochondrial disorders can manifest with autistic features.
- Reviewing the literature reveals a growing body of evidence for this comorbidity.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider screening for mitochondrial disorders in children diagnosed with autistic disorder, especially when atypical features are present.
- Identifying underlying mitochondrial conditions can inform targeted interventions and genetic counseling.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise mechanisms linking mitochondrial disorders and autistic disorder.
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