Autism and Epilepsy

[um-adam]

I think I read somewhere that a third of children with autism also have seizures. What about the reverse? Does anyone know what percentage of children with epilepsy go on to develop autism? Is there any link between the two conditions?

[Nakamova]

Since the causes of both autism and epilepsy aren't completely understood, and since both disorders present very differently from individual to individual, it can be difficult to separate out "which came first". Generally speaking, autism is diagnosed first, and epilepsy develops later, rather than the other way around. At least in some cases, research indicates that there may be a common genetic cause: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases...0408075031.htm In these situations, the presence of one disorder can be a marker for (rather than a cause of) the other.

There's also seems to be a connection between an anti-seizure drug taken in pregnancy, and the development of autism: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases...1201162028.htm This suggests the possibility that a combination of genetics with environmental influences on the developing brain (pre-natally and in early infancy) can set the stage for the development of autism. The genetics may predispose someone to a higher vulnerability to autism or epilepsy, but there may also be secondary triggers that allow the disorders to emerge.

[Endless]

Welcome to the forum, Um-Adam!

Yes, I had read the same thing.

http://www.epilepsyontario.org/clien...psy+and+Autism
http://www.autismspeaks.org/family-s...m-and-epilepsy

I haven't heard of epilepsy causing autism. There is so little research on epilepsy at all. There's much less than on autism. Some suspect there is a third reason that is causing both epilepsy and autism together, like the structure of the brain or brain cells. I found a site that quotes reasearch in that area, but they didn't cite their sources, or the names of the studies. I searched on www.pubmed.com and couldn't find the study. Here's the author of one of the quotes: Anthony-Samuel LaMantia
http://gwtoday.gwu.edu/learningresea...orneuroscience


Here's the site that refers to the research. Take it with a HUGE grain of salt - put on your skeptic hat. I think the site is full of opinions and misinformation presented as facts. There may still be something usable in it, if we can chase down the studies. http://regardingautism.blogspot.com/...-seizures.html

[um-adam]

Thank you both for the links and feedback. It is appreciated.

[mommieinmi]

This is interesting information. My daughter was just diagnosed with epilepsy. She does not have autism but my son and my brother do. I am wondering if there is some sort of genetic component that links the two.

[donnajane]

Thankyou so much everyone. I learn so much every time I jump on this site. My son is still in the midst of his Paed and Nureo trying to work out what is going on with him and his seizures. His Paed, like us, is wondering what the next year or so holds and what he will be diagnosed with, if they can find out. Good news is though at 11 1/2 months he finnally pulled himself along the floor for the first time a few days ago. Its a half commando crawl and my physio and other have noticed, as have we, he doesn't us his left leg at all when he does it but its so great as he has been on "pause" with his development for almost 5 months. Thankfully his seizures are stil small and he communicates well most of the time, other than when in his hyperactive overstimulated state.
Thankyou so much for the great links. I find so much comfort and hope from this site. Thankyou all for sharing.
Donnajane