Factors associated with abnormal screening for autism spectrum disorder among extremely preterm children

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To investigate positive results on a screening instrument for autism spectrum disorder (pos-ASDS) and associated neonatal and early developmental risk factors in school-age children born extremely preterm (EPT).

STUDY DESIGN: Researchers assessed 380 EPT children (GA 24 to <28 weeks) at 6-7 years-of-age using the Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ). Pos-ASDS was defined as an SCQ score ≥15. Logistic regression examined independent associations of perinatal factors and 18-22 months behavior and cognitive scores with pos-ASDS.

RESULTS: Fourteen % of the children scored ≥ 15 in the ASDS (SCQ). Risk factors included male sex, lower birth weight, severe retinopathy of prematurity, motor/sensory impairments, lower cognitive scores, poorer emotional competence, and more behavioral problems at 18-22 months. Neonatal MRI and cranial ultrasound findings were not significantly different.

CONCLUSION: Children born EPT have increased positive ASDS. It is important to assess their socioemotional development early and pos-ASDS risk factors to facilitate prompt intervention.