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Information disseminated by Autism South Africa is for information purposes only.
The onus rests with the reader to explore and investigate the relevant information and alternatives for each individual.
Information disseminated by Autism South Africa is for information purposes only.
The onus rests with the reader to explore and investigate the relevant information and alternatives for each individual.
Information sent out does not imply that Autism South Africa underwrites or endorses any particular therapy, intervention, method or medication. Autism South Africa assumes no responsibility for the use made of any information provided herein.
Prevalence of epilepsy in children with autism
Tuchman and Rapin (2002) found that the incidence of epilepsy in children with autism ranged from 5% to 40%. Hughes and Melyn (2005) reported that the electroencephalographs (EEGs) of 75% of the children with autism showed abnormal patterns of electrical activity in the brain and 46% had seizures.
People with autism who have epilepsy show different types of seizure. The figures vary because each person with autism and epilepsy has a different mixture of epileptic entities, some of which include seizures while others do not. Also, epileptic entities are often not reported because of communication difficulties.
SEIZURES, EPILEPSY AND AUTISM
One in four children with an Autism Spectrum Disorders will develop seizures. These may not necessarily begin in early childhood, but can start as late as adolescence. Seizures are caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain and are a common comborbid disorder with autism and Asperger's syndrome. There is usually a temporary period of unconsciousness, a body convulsion, unusual movements, or staring spells. Sometimes a contributing factor is a lack of sleep or a high fever.