Positive screen on Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) born with very low birth weight and intrauterine growth restriction: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to verify the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) responses among children born with very low birth weight (VLBW) with and without (IUGR).METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out with toddlers born with VLBW, with and without IUGR. IUGR was based both on fetal ultrasound and birth weight for gestational age. M-CHAT was completed by the parents.RESULTS: Sixty-nine children completed the study and 30 (43.4%) screened positive for ASD. Analysis of children with positive and negative M-CHAT screens found no significant differences, except IUGR; 13 (43.3%) vs. 6 (15.3%), P=0.021. Multivariate analysis showed that IUGR remained significant; OR=5.3 (1.3-21.8), P=0.019.CONCLUSIONS: Toddlers born with very low birth weight associated with IUGR have a high risk for autism, according to the M-CHAT. Further studies are needed to confirm these results.