Factors associated with abnormal screening for autism spectrum disorder among Extremely Preterm Children

Objective To investigate positive results on a screening instrument for autism spectrum disorder (pos-ASDS) and associated neonatal and early developmental risk factors in school-age children born extremely preterm (EPT). Study design Researchers assessed 380 EPT children (GA 24 to <28 weeks) at 6–7 years-of-age using the Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ). Pos-ASDS was defined as an SCQ score ≥15. Logistic regression examined independent associations of perinatal factors and 18–22 months behavior and cognitive scores with pos-ASDS. Results Fourteen % of the children scored ≥ 15 in the ASDS (SCQ). Risk factors included male sex, lower birth weight, severe retinopathy of prematurity, motor/sensory impairments, lower cognitive scores, poorer emotional competence, and more behavioral problems at 18–22 months. Neonatal MRI and cranial ultrasound findings were not significantly different. Conclusion Children born EPT have increased positive ASDS. It is important to assess their socioemotional development early and pos-ASDS risk factors to facilitate prompt intervention.