Characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorder among a Sample of Egyptian Children

Abstract

Background Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a biologically based neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impairments in two major domains; deficits in social communication and social interaction and restricted repetitive patterns of behavior, interests and activities. Aim of the Work Understanding and correlating the socioeconomic status (SES), clinical characteristics and the severity of ASD. Patients and Methods 100 autistic patients were assessed using DSM-V criteria, intelligence quotient (IQ) assessment using Stanford Binnet intelligence scale, assessment of severity of autistic symptoms using childhood autism rating scale (CARS), and psychometric evaluation for comorbid psychiatric conditions by using Pediatric Symptoms Checklist (PSCL), Full clinical examination, neurological examination, Electroencephalography (EEG) for some patient & socioeconomic status (SES) assessment were also done. Results Severity of ASD was correlated with each of motor & social delay (p = 0.007) (p = 0.000) respectively, impairment in Sphincter control (p = 0.012), imitation impairment (p = 0.010) and stereotypic behavior (p = 0.015. Our patients had comorbidities in the form of; gastrointestinal tract (GIT) symptoms, eating disorders and EEG findings (p = 0.004) (p = 0.005) (p = 0.038) respectively. Our patients mainly belonged to middle SES (57%) and severity of ASD was correlated with family possessions domain of SES (p = 0.001). Children who belonged to high SES were more likely to be diagnosed earlier (p = 0.016) with better IQ (p = 0.003) than those from lower SES. Conclusion It is important for developing countries to have their own research and to increase public awareness in all socioeconomic strata and establish integrated services for autism.