Factors Associated With Seizure Onset in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have a higher abstract prevalence of epilepsy compared with general populations. In this pilot study, we
prospectively identified baseline risk factors for the development of seizures in individuals
with ASD and also identified characteristics sensitive to seizure onset up to 6 years after
enrollment in the Autism Speaks Autism Treatment Network.
METHODS: Children with ASD and no history of seizures at baseline who either experienced onset
of seizures after enrollment in the Autism Treatment Network or remained seizure free were
included in the analysis.
RESULTS: Among 472 qualifying children, 22 (4.7%) experienced onset of seizures after
enrollment. Individuals who developed seizures after enrollment exhibited lower scores at
baseline on all domains of the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales, greater hyperactivity on the
Aberrant Behavior Checklist (25.4 6 11.8 vs 19.2 6 11.1; P = .018), and lower physical quality
of life scores on the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (60.1 6 24.2 vs 76.0 6 18.2; P , .001).
Comparing change in scores from entry to call-back, adjusting for age, sex, length of follow-up,
and baseline Vineland II composite score, individuals who developed seizures experienced
declines in daily living skills (28.38; 95% confidence interval 214.50 to 22.50; P = .005).
Adjusting for baseline age, sex, and length of follow-up, baseline Vineland II composite score
was predictive of seizure development (risk ratio = 0.95 per unit Vineland II composite score,
95% confidence interval 0.92 to 0.99; P = .007).
CONCLUSIONS: Individuals with ASD at risk for seizures exhibited changes in adaptive functioning
and behavior