Help With Autism

Harvard researchers have recently reported that autistic children have a wide range of genetic abnormalities, making it next to impossible to create a straightforward genetic test to identify the disorder.   The University of Missouri has responded by studying 3D imaging to illustrate correlations in the facial features and brain structures of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), which will ultimately enable the creation of a standard for earlier detection of the disorder.  Rather than using existing MRI (magnetic resonance image) technology, the University of Missouri team has developed 3-D tools to draw comparisons between the brain structures of autistic and non-autistic children.  Some of these autism research preliminary findings have drawn apparent parallels between complex autism in children with more physical challenges, known brain abnormalities and smaller head sizes, a category that encompasses approximately 20% of affected children.  The other 80% of affected children are classified as having essential autism, with facial structure and increased cranium similarities having been noted by researchers.  Brain abnormalities have been suspected in the latter group, but research has not confirmed these speculations at this time.

Current diagnoses of autism are based exclusively on behavioral traits, though doctors will use a tape measurement to check for facial and brain dissimilarities as well.  University of Missouri researchers are developing a quantitative method that will measure these differences in a more precise fashion.  Their goal is to have the capability to perform a fast and non-invasive scan of a child’s face and brain, prescreening for abnormalities and expediting the crucial early treatment of autistic spectrum disorder in children and preparation of their families.  The researchers also hope to reveal other genetic clues that can direct future research.

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