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Factors Associated With Seizure Onset in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Jamie K Capal1,2, Eric A Macklin3,4, Frances Lu3

  • 1Department of Neurology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio; jamie.capal@cchmc.org.

Pediatrics
|April 3, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who developed seizures showed lower adaptive behavior scores and increased hyperactivity. These findings highlight behavioral changes that may indicate a risk for seizure development in this population.

Area of Science:

  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders
  • Epileptology
  • Pediatric Neurology

Background:

  • Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with a higher prevalence of epilepsy.
  • Identifying early risk factors for seizures in children with ASD is crucial for timely intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify baseline risk factors for seizure development in children with ASD.
  • To determine characteristics indicative of seizure onset in individuals with ASD.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective pilot study of children with ASD enrolled in the Autism Speaks Autism Treatment Network.
  • Analysis included children with no history of seizures at baseline, comparing those who developed seizures with those who remained seizure-free.
  • Utilized Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, Aberrant Behavior Checklist, and Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory.

Main Results:

  • Of 472 children, 22 (4.7%) developed seizures post-enrollment.
  • Children who developed seizures had lower baseline scores in adaptive behavior, greater hyperactivity, and lower quality of life.
  • Declines in daily living skills were observed in those who developed seizures.

Conclusions:

  • Individuals with ASD at risk for seizures demonstrate altered adaptive functioning and behavioral patterns.
  • Baseline adaptive behavior scores predict seizure development in children with ASD.
Abstract

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