Autism, ADHD and parent-reported behavioural difficulties in young children with epilepsy

Publication date: Available online 10 August 2019Source: SeizureAuthor(s): Colin Reilly, Patricia Atkinson, Ayesha Memon, Chloe Jones, Lyvia Dabydeen, J. Helen Cross, Krishna B. Das, Christopher Gillberg, Brian G.R. Neville, Rod C. ScottAbstractPurposeTo provide data on the prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and parent reported behaviour difficulties in young children with epilepsy, and to compare results with children with neurodisability (neurodevelopmental/neurological difficulties) without epilepsy.MethodChildren with epilepsy (1-7 years, n = 48) and children with neurodisability (1-7 years, n = 48) matched for gender, chronological and developmental age underwent psychological assessment. Parents completed measures of behaviour including the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). DSM-5 diagnoses of ASD and ADHD were made at consensus case conferences. Factors associated with child behaviour were analysed using linear regression.ResultsOf the children with epilepsy, 18% met ASD criteria and 40% met ADHD criteria (corresponding figures in the non-epilepsy group were 41% and 27%). A large proportion (76%-78%) in both groups scored in the at-risk range on the SDQ and frequently had difficulties across multiple behavioural domains. Children with epilepsy had more concerns expressed regarding attention and mood. None of the epilepsy factors were significantly associated with scores on the behavioural ...
Source: Seizure - Category: Neurology Source Type: research