Autism Spectrum Disorder in a Single Family: A Case Series of Three Siblings

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition with a rising prevalence worldwide. While genetic factors are significantly associated with the disorder, environmental factors are often speculated to contribute to its onset. The Middle East, exhibiting higher rates of ASD, also sees frequent consanguineous marriages, necessitating focused studies on potential etiological factors in the region. We report a unique case of a family with three children diagnosed with ASD. The parents, aged between 35 and 39 years at the birth of their first child, have no notable familial history of neurodevelopmental disorders. Interestingly, while both parents and two of the children had normal chromosomal patterns, one child displayed chromosomal abnormalities. This discrepancy raises questions about the interplay between genetics and external factors in the manifestation of ASD. The family's medical history, combined with the regional context of high ASD prevalence and consanguineous marriages, provides a compelling backdrop for the study. The presence of chromosomal abnormalities in only one child, despite no detectable genetic irregularities in parents or siblings, underscores the potential influence of environmental factors in the development of ASD. This case accentuates the importance of conducting in-depth genetic and environmental studies to unravel the intricate etiological web surrounding ASD in the Middle East.