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Updated: Feb 8, 2026
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Testing Sensory and Multisensory Function in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Published on: April 22, 2015
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Auditory Brainstem Pathology in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Review
Joseph P Pillion1,2, Dana Boatman-Reich3,4, Barry Gordon3,5
1Department of Audiology, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland.
Summary
Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often show atypical sound responses due to auditory brainstem issues. Research indicates abnormalities in the auditory brainstem, particularly in younger children with ASD.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Psychology
- Audiology
Background:
- Atypical sound responses are prevalent in autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
- Evidence suggests underlying auditory brainstem pathology contributes to these responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively review structural and functional evidence of auditory brainstem abnormalities in ASD.
- To identify trends and patterns in auditory brainstem dysfunction within the ASD population.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review of studies published between 1975 and 2016.
- Analysis of structural imaging and electrophysiological data from multiple online databases.
- Consideration of study quantity and quality indices.
Main Results:
- Converging evidence supports auditory brainstem pathology in ASD, though specific structures and functions remain unclear.
- Abnormalities are predominantly observed at higher auditory brainstem levels.
- Brainstem abnormalities are more frequent in younger children with ASD, suggesting delayed neural maturation.
Conclusions:
- Findings align with common auditory disorders in ASD, such as sound sensitivity and difficulty with sound localization.
- Delayed maturation of brainstem neural pathways may explain observed auditory deficits.
- Further research is needed to clarify specific anatomical and functional deficits.
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