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Autism spectrum disorders in survivors of extreme prematurity

Catherine Limperopoulos1

  • 1Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, School of Physical and Occupational Therapy, McGill University, 2300 Tupper Street, Montreal, Quebec, H3H 1P3, Canada. catherine.limperopoulos@mcgill.ca

Clinics in Perinatology
|December 1, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Extreme prematurity survivors may show atypical social behaviors linked to autism spectrum disorder. Further research is needed to confirm early autism signs in these children.

Area of Science:

  • Neurodevelopmental disorders
  • Pediatric neurology
  • Autism spectrum disorders

Background:

  • Survivors of extreme prematurity exhibit an underrecognized atypical social-behavioral profile.
  • This profile is increasingly recognized as potentially indicative of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review existing evidence linking prematurity and autism spectrum disorders.
  • To highlight the need for prospective studies on early autism signs in premature infants.
  • To explore the role of advanced neonatal MRI in understanding ASD development in this population.

Main Methods:

  • Review of available scientific literature on prematurity and ASD.
  • Discussion of the need for early autism screening and diagnostic testing in ex-premature children.
  • Consideration of advances in neonatal MRI for structural and functional brain measurements.

Main Results:

  • Growing evidence suggests a link between extreme prematurity and an increased prevalence of ASD-like behaviors.
  • Current diagnostic approaches may underrecognize early autism signs in this vulnerable group.
  • Neonatal brain imaging offers potential for insights into the mechanisms underlying ASD in premature infants.

Conclusions:

  • Prematurity is a significant factor associated with an increased risk of autism spectrum disorder.
  • Early identification and intervention are crucial for ex-premature children exhibiting social-behavioral challenges.
  • Future research utilizing advanced neuroimaging is essential to elucidate the neurobiological underpinnings of ASD in prematurity survivors.

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