Linguistic and cognitive functioning and autism symptoms in young children with fragile X syndrome

Am J Ment Retard. 2004 May;109(3):208-18. doi: 10.1352/0895-8017(2004)109<208:LACFAA>2.0.CO;2.

Abstract

Linguistic and cognitive profiles were examined in 18 children with autism and 18 children with fragile X syndrome (mean ages = 34 months). State-of-the-art diagnostic procedures for autism symptom identification were administered. Eight children with fragile X met criteria for autism. Comparison of linguistic and cognitive profiles (autism, fragile X without autism, fragile X with autism) revealed that children with fragile X (with autism) were more impaired in nonverbal cognition and expressive language. Receptive language was a relative strength for children with fragile X (without autism). There were no differences in receptive language in children with autism, regardless of fragile X status. Low receptive language may be a marker for autism symptoms in young children with fragile X.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Autistic Disorder / epidemiology*
  • Child, Preschool
  • Cognition Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Cognition Disorders / epidemiology*
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Fragile X Syndrome / epidemiology*
  • Fragile X Syndrome / genetics*
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Linguistics / methods
  • Male
  • Neuropsychological Tests
  • Observer Variation
  • Phenotype
  • Surveys and Questionnaires