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Behavioral Phenotype of ASD Preschoolers with Gastrointestinal Symptoms or Food Selectivity

Margherita Prosperi1, Elisa Santocchi1, Giulia Balboni2

  • 1IRCCS Stella Maris Foundation, Viale del Tirreno 331, 56018, Calambrone, Pisa, Italy.

Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders
|September 2, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Gastrointestinal (GI) and food selectivity (FS) symptoms are common in preschoolers with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). These symptoms correlate with behavioral issues, not ASD severity.

Area of Science:

  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders
  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Child Psychology

Background:

  • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition.
  • Gastrointestinal (GI) issues and food selectivity (FS) are frequently observed in children with ASD.
  • The relationship between these symptoms and core ASD features, as well as behavioral problems, requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence and types of GI and FS symptoms in preschoolers with ASD.
  • To explore the association between GI/FS symptoms and core ASD characteristics.
  • To examine the link between GI/FS symptoms and emotional/behavioral problems in this population.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of 163 preschoolers diagnosed with ASD was assessed.
  • Prevalence of GI symptoms and FS was evaluated.
  • Associations with ASD severity, IQ, and emotional/behavioral problems were analyzed.

Main Results:

  • 40.5% of preschoolers with ASD experienced at least one severe GI symptom or FS.
  • Children with GI symptoms and/or FS differed significantly in emotional/behavioral problems and restrictive/repetitive behaviors.
  • No significant differences were found in performance IQ or autistic severity based on GI/FS status.
  • The combined group with GI and FS symptoms showed higher rates of sleep problems, self-injurious behaviors, and anxiety.

Conclusions:

  • GI disturbances and FS are prevalent in preschoolers with ASD and are linked to challenging behaviors.
  • Early identification and intervention for GI and FS symptoms are crucial.
  • Tailored interventions addressing GI and FS issues may help manage associated behavioral challenges in ASD.

Keywords:
Anxiety ProblemsChild Behavior Checklist 1½–5Externalizing ProblemsRestrictive and repetitive behavioursSleep ProblemsYoung Children

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