The Neuropsychological Profiles of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Epilepsy

Abstract

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by core deficits in social communication and reciprocity as well as the presence of restricted and repetitive behaviors. ASD and epilepsy co-occur at high rates with up to 30% of individuals with either a primary diagnosis of ASD or epilepsy experiencing a co-occurring disorder. Research has described the independent contribution of epilepsy and autism to neuropsychological deficits or weakness, but relatively little research has examined the neuropsychological sequela of these co-occurring disorders. A critical review of the research reveals that individuals with co-occurring disorders demonstrate more difficulties with language functioning, verbal abilities, nonverbal cognitive abilities, daily living skills, motor skills, and more problematic behavior when compared with children with ASD alone. Although there is a great deal yet to be examined in this population, the clinical implications and the need for thorough neuropsychological evaluations within this population are clear. This article provides a brief review of the neuropsychological findings in ASD and epilepsy alone as well as an in depth review of the literature on outcomes in patients with co-occurring disorders. Research in neuropsychological profile of two genetic causes of ASD and epilepsy are reviewed as an example of the utility of this research and clinical evaluation in guiding treatment and intervention recommendations and expectations.