Dysmorphic Features and Development of Children with Infantile Autism

Background: Childhood autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is characterized by impairments in social interactions, verbal and non-verbal communication and a pattern of stereotypical behaviours and interests. The present theories suggest that autism is caused by the effects of genes and neurobiological factors. Numerous authors described certain dysmorphic features, commonly occurring separately in autistic persons. These features are considered to be the potential indicator of early neurodevelopmental disorders.

Objectives: The aim of the study was to establish the dysmorphic features of the face in a group of autistic children and to compare the results to a group with Asperger syndrome.

Methods: We examined 30 children with childhood autism and 30 with Asperger syndrome. Criteria DSM-IV and Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) were used in diagnosis. The photoanthropometric method followed the protocol established by Stengel-Rutkowski et al. Parents were asked additionally to complete the Diagnostic Checklist for Behavior-Disturbed Children. Statistical analysis was conducted with the use of  ANOVA Kruskal-Wallis and U Mann (-) Whitney tests, correlation analysis was made using χ² test and Spearmann index.

Results: Dysmorphies of the ear as well as nose were found in the group of autistic children. In the examined group there was the correlation between the amount of dysmorphies and the presence of some somatic disorders in the first-degree relatives. The presence of these disorders showed also the connection with the scores in Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS). Besides there was a relationship between the amount of dysmorphies and the motor development of autistic children.

Conclusions: In the patients with childhood autism the anteriorly rotated ears and the long back of the nose appeared more often. These parameters may become useful for early detection.