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Correlation of autism with temporal tubers in tuberous sclerosis complex
Kavitha Kothur1, Munni Ray, Prahbhjot Malhi
1Department of Pediatrics, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India.
Insights
Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), a genetic disorder, is linked to autism in 1-4% of cases. Specific brain lesions (temporal tubers) are more common in TSC patients with autism, suggesting a potential diagnostic marker.
Area of Science:
- Neurogenetics
- Developmental Neuroscience
- Pediatric Neurology
Background:
- Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is an inherited disorder affecting multiple organs, frequently causing neuropsychiatric issues.
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) affects 1-4% of individuals with TSC, with mental retardation and seizures being key risk factors.
- Understanding the neurobiological underpinnings of TSC-associated autism is crucial for diagnosis and management.
Observation:
- This report details two cases of TSC presenting with autism.
- Clinical and neuroimaging data were collected for both patients.
- Specific attention was given to the presence and location of cortical tubers.
Findings:
- Patients with TSC and autism exhibited distinct neuroimaging findings compared to those without autism.
- Temporal tubers were identified more frequently in TSC patients diagnosed with autism.
- These findings suggest a potential correlation between specific lesion locations and the co-occurrence of TSC and autism.
Implications:
- Identifying specific neuroimaging markers like temporal tubers could aid in the early diagnosis of autism in TSC patients.
- Further research into the relationship between TSC, tubers, and autism may reveal underlying pathogenic mechanisms.
- This understanding can inform targeted interventions and improve outcomes for individuals with TSC and co-occurring autism.
Abstract:
Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is an inherited genetic disorder commonly associated with neuropsychiatric complications like epilepsy, mental retardation, autism and other behavioral problems and constitutes about 1-4% of the autistic population. Mental retardation and seizures, particularly infantile spasms are significant risk factors for the development of autism. Patients of TSC with autism are more likely to have temporal tubers than those cases without autism. We describe clinical and neuroimaging features of two such cases of tuberous sclerosis with autism.
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