Presenter Status
Fellow
Abstract Type
Research
Primary Mentor
Elizabeth J Willen, PhD
Start Date
13-5-2024 11:30 AM
End Date
13-5-2024 1:30 PM
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Description
Background: Children with Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) have higher odds of developing social difficulties and/or an Autism Spectrum Disorder (AuSD) than the general population. Most research to date has utilized a parent-reported diagnosis and/or parent-reported questionnaire data. The purpose of this study is to identify the prevalence of AuSD diagnosis and associated risk factors in a patient sample from a medium-size children’s hospital.
Working Hypotheses: The prevalence of AuSD and associated risk factors is greater in the CHD population.
Methods: Our population includes a clinically referred sample of children (i.e., medical history of CHD and neurodevelopmental risk) under 18 who received a diagnosis of AuSD through neuropsychological evaluation at Children’s Mercy Kansas City (CMKC) between 01/2021 and 12/2022.
Data Analysis/Results: Analysis indicates that rates of AuSD diagnoses derived from formal evaluation involving best-practice face-to-face assessment are higher in this population (10.39%), consistent with findings from other studies. In our CHD population, the prevalence rates of AuSD and comorbid acyanotic heart conditions, neurological complications, and genetic conditions was also assessed (56%, 50% and 38%, respectively).
Conclusion: Increased recognition of the higher risk of AuSD in the CHD population is emerging. It is imperative that providers include regular AuSD screening in clinics to ensure appropriate access to evaluation, treatment, and family support.
Congenital Heart Defects and Autism: Associated Risk Factors
Background: Children with Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) have higher odds of developing social difficulties and/or an Autism Spectrum Disorder (AuSD) than the general population. Most research to date has utilized a parent-reported diagnosis and/or parent-reported questionnaire data. The purpose of this study is to identify the prevalence of AuSD diagnosis and associated risk factors in a patient sample from a medium-size children’s hospital.
Working Hypotheses: The prevalence of AuSD and associated risk factors is greater in the CHD population.
Methods: Our population includes a clinically referred sample of children (i.e., medical history of CHD and neurodevelopmental risk) under 18 who received a diagnosis of AuSD through neuropsychological evaluation at Children’s Mercy Kansas City (CMKC) between 01/2021 and 12/2022.
Data Analysis/Results: Analysis indicates that rates of AuSD diagnoses derived from formal evaluation involving best-practice face-to-face assessment are higher in this population (10.39%), consistent with findings from other studies. In our CHD population, the prevalence rates of AuSD and comorbid acyanotic heart conditions, neurological complications, and genetic conditions was also assessed (56%, 50% and 38%, respectively).
Conclusion: Increased recognition of the higher risk of AuSD in the CHD population is emerging. It is imperative that providers include regular AuSD screening in clinics to ensure appropriate access to evaluation, treatment, and family support.
