Neurobehavioural Patterns in the Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Down Syndrome.
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
9-2025
Identifier
DOI: 10.1111/jir.70015
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is common in Down syndrome (DS). There are no standardised screening/assessment tools for evaluating ASD in DS.
METHODS: We utilised a novel validated questionnaire, the ND-PROM, to investigate differences in developmental skills and behaviours among children with DS only, ASD only and DS + ASD.
RESULTS: Data analysis using ANOVA tests and post hoc t-tests revealed item-level differences between groups in domains specific to ASD (nonverbal communication, social-emotional understanding, social interaction, independent play, restrictive and repetitive behaviours and interests and sensory processes) and not specific to ASD (expressive language, receptive language, adaptive/toileting, challenging behaviours, mental health and impulse/ADHD).
CONCLUSION: ASD-specific symptoms best distinguished DS only and DS + ASD groups, while non-ASD symptoms best distinguished ASD only and DS + ASD groups. Items that best differentiate groups are presented.
Journal Title
Journal of intellectual disability research : JIDR
Volume
69
Issue
9
First Page
809
Last Page
821
MeSH Keywords
Humans; Down Syndrome; Autism Spectrum Disorder; Male; Child; Female; Child, Preschool; Adolescent; Comorbidity
PubMed ID
40662456
Keywords
Down syndrome and autism; autism; diagnosis; neurobehavioural patterns
Recommended Citation
Patel LR, O'Neill M, Anzueto G, et al. Neurobehavioural Patterns in the Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Down Syndrome. J Intellect Disabil Res. 2025;69(9):809-821. doi:10.1111/jir.70015
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