What Factors Might Account for the Increased Risk of Autism in Children with Epilepsy?

Children with epilepsy have a higher risk of also having autism spectrum disorder (ASD). A recent study examined factors associated with the co-occurrence of autism and epilepsy in a large population-based group. For the study, investigators compared the prevalence of ASD in children with and without epilepsy based on medical records, and they evaluated associated factors, including sex, age at autism identification, and intellectual disability.

Autism prevalence was significantly higher among children with epilepsy as compared with children without across all three research and clinical definitions assessed. Children with epilepsy and autism were more likely to have intellectual disability, were more often female, and were identified with autism at a younger age compared with those without autism.

Senior author Elaine C. Wirrell, MD, added that although children with epilepsy are at an elevated risk of autism, recognition can be delayed. “Our findings emphasize the importance of screening for autism in this population to support earlier diagnosis and timely intervention, both of which are key to improving long-term outcomes.”

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