Autism Spectrum Disorders News

Recent findings suggest risk for autism and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder may be influenced by factors associated with prenatal antidepressant use, but not antidepressant use itself.

Use of antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, during the second and/or third trimester of pregnancy was associated with an increased risk for autism in offspring, even when considering maternal depression.

The mean effect of 16p11.2 duplication on cognition was similar to that of reciprocal deletion; however, duplication had significantly higher variance, partly due to additional genetic and familial factors, according to recent findings.

The NIMH has signed an agreement with the Foundation Associates LLC to establish a nationwide effort for the collection, storage and distribution of postmortem human brain tissue for autism research.

Estimated prevalence of autism spectrum disorder increased from 2011 to 2014 following changes in developmental disabilities questions in the National Health Interview Survey, according to recent findings.

WASHINGTON — A web-based version of a standard autism spectrum disorder screening chart significantly increased the monthly rate of pediatric patients screened for autism at an urban center compared with the paper version, researchers reported at the 2015 AAP National Conference and Exhibition.

Children with autism have increased risk for unhealthy weight, particularly if they experience sleep or affective problems, according to study findings in Pediatrics.

Nasal spray containing oxytocin led to improved social responsiveness among young children with autism, according to study findings in Molecular Psychiatry.

Extended-release guanfacine was safe and effective for short-term treatment of hyperactivity, impulsiveness and distractibility in children with autism spectrum disorder, according to study findings in the American Journal of Psychiatry.

Diagnostic consideration for autism spectrum disorder is required when making a diagnosis of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, due to the prevalence of detrimentally late diagnosis of ASD in children with concurrent disorders, according to recent data in Pediatrics.