EEG Abnormalities and Phenotypic Correlates in Preschoolers with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Single-Center Study

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Developmental Pediatrics
• Clinical Electrophysiology

Background:

• Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are associated with subclinical electroencephalographic abnormalities (SEAs).
• Prevalence of SEAs in pediatric ASD population is heterogeneous (12.5-60.7%).
• Understanding EEG findings in ASD preschoolers is crucial for clinical management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate electroencephalogram (EEG) findings in preschool-aged children with ASD.
• To correlate EEG results with phenotypic characteristics of autism spectrum disorder.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 141 ASD preschoolers evaluated between 2008-2018.
• Standard polygraphic electroencephalogram (EEG) and clinical multidisciplinary assessment.
• Analysis of EEG data for subclinical electroencephalographic abnormalities (SEAs) and correlation with clinical data.

Main Results:

• 55% of ASD preschoolers exhibited SEAs, primarily focal and multifocal epileptiform discharges.
• Abnormal EEG and epileptiform discharges were associated with seizure onset and predominantly observed during sleep.
• Younger age was linked to abnormal EEG tracings and slow abnormalities; ASD severity did not correlate with EEG results.

Conclusions:

• EEG abnormalities in ASD preschoolers are more associated with internalizing, externalizing, and emotional comorbidities.
• The study suggests a potential link between EEG findings and psychometric parameters, requiring further investigation.
• Larger sample sizes are needed to confirm the association between EEG abnormalities and comorbidities in ASD.