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Dysmorphism in non-syndromic autism: A cross-sectional study

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Abstract

Objectives

To determine the effect of association of dysembryogenesis (manifested by presence of dysmorphic markers) on the developmental profile of autistic children.

Methods

26 autistic children were classified into complex autism (if they had specific dysmorphic markers) or essential autism (in the absence of dysmorphic markers) using the Miles Autism Dysmorphology Measure (ADM). The developmental abilities (Griffith’s Mental Development Scales) and the clinical severity (Childhood Autism Rating Scale) of both groups were compared. The prevalence of dysmorphic markers was also determined in 140 non-autistic controls.

Results

Children with complex autism had poorer development (General Quotient 29.4 vs 34.0, P=0.06) and earlier onset of autistic symptoms (18 vs 24 mo, P=0.05). Dysmorphic markers were significantly more in autistic children compared to normal children (27% vs 10%, P=0.002).

Conclusions

Dysembryogenesis may contribute to the clinical heterogeneity of autistic children.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Developmental Paediatrics Unit, Christian Medical College (CMC) and Hospital, Vellore, India

    Susan Mary Zachariah, Samuel Philip Oommen, Caroline Sanjeev Padankatti, Hannah Grace & Lincy Glory

Authors
  1. Susan Mary Zachariah
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  2. Samuel Philip Oommen
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  3. Caroline Sanjeev Padankatti
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  4. Hannah Grace
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  5. Lincy Glory
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Susan Mary Zachariah.

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Zachariah, S.M., Oommen, S.P., Padankatti, C.S. et al. Dysmorphism in non-syndromic autism: A cross-sectional study . Indian Pediatr 54, 560–562 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13312-017-1068-4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s13312-017-1068-4

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