[Autism spectrum disorder and prematurity: towards a prospective screening program]

Area of Science:

• Neonatal Development
• Developmental Pediatrics
• Autism Spectrum Disorders

Background:

• Prevalence of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is higher in preterm and low birth weight infants compared to the general population.
• Increased focus on screening studies investigating ASD risk factors and developmental trajectories in preterm newborns.
• Understanding developmental differences in preterm infants is key to early identification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and present findings from key screening studies on preterm newborns.
• To develop evidence-based screening recommendations for preterm infants.
• To improve early detection of ASD in high-risk infant populations.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing screening studies focusing on preterm infants.
• Analysis of developmental surveillance data for socio-communicative and behavioral outcomes.
• Evaluation of adapted screening tools for preterm populations.

Main Results:

• Socio-communicative and behavioral development trajectories in preterm infants may differ from term-born infants.
• Developmental surveillance is a valid approach for screening preterm infants.
• Screening tools specifically adapted for preterm infants are advisable.

Conclusions:

• Preterm children represent a distinct risk group for ASD screening.
• Differential characteristics in preterm infants necessitate tailored screening approaches.
• Early and adapted screening can improve outcomes for preterm infants at risk for ASD.