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Obstetric factors in Asperger syndrome: comparison with high-functioning autism
M Ghaziuddin1, J Shakal, L Tsai
1University of Michigan, Ann Arbor 48109-0390, USA.
Journal of Intellectual Disability Research : JIDR
|December 1, 1995
Summary
Males with Asperger syndrome (AS) showed fewer infant complications like low Apgar scores and irritability compared to autistic males. This suggests potential differences in early developmental factors between these conditions.
Area of Science:
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Pediatric Neurology
Background:
- Asperger syndrome (AS) is considered a milder form of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
- Understanding the etiological differences between AS and autism is crucial for diagnosis and intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare obstetric insults and early developmental histories between males with AS and high-functioning autism (HFA).
- To investigate potential risk factors differentiating AS from HFA.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of developmental and obstetric records.
- Comparison of 10 males with AS and 10 males with HFA (IQ ≥ 70).
Main Results:
- Males with AS exhibited a trend towards lower one-minute Apgar scores (P=0.04).
- Mothers of males with AS were more likely to be outside the optimal reproductive age range (20-30 years) (P=0.02).
- Infants with AS were less likely to present as irritable and floppy (P=0.05).
Conclusions:
- AS may be associated with fewer obstetric complications and specific infant characteristics compared to HFA.
- These findings suggest distinct prenatal or perinatal influences may contribute to AS development.