Computed tomographic study of children with classic autism

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Developmental Neuroscience
• Child Psychology

Background:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition.
• Previous research has suggested potential structural brain differences in individuals with autism.
• Investigating brain structure in well-defined autistic cohorts is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate potential brain abnormalities using computed tomographic (CT) scans in a specific group of autistic boys.
• To examine if there is any asymmetry in brain structure related to lateralized cognitive functions in these individuals.

Main Methods:

• Computed tomographic (CT) scans were performed on nine autistic boys aged 9–16 years.
• Participants had a diagnosis of classic childhood autism and borderline to normal intelligence.
• Performance on tests of left hemispheric functions was assessed.

Main Results:

• No abnormalities of any kind were detected on the CT scans.
• No significant brain asymmetry related to lateralized cognitive functions was observed.
• The autistic boys performed poorly on tests measuring left hemispheric functions.

Conclusions:

• The study found no evidence of structural brain abnormalities or asymmetry in the examined group of autistic boys.
• It is hypothesized that previously reported brain abnormalities in autism may be due to the inclusion of heterogeneous patient samples.
• Further research with carefully defined cohorts is needed to understand the neurobiology of autism.