[Eating behavior in children with autism spectrum disorder].

This study looked at eating problems in 180 young children with autism (ages 2-5). Researchers found three main patterns of autism, with different levels of eating difficulties. Children with more severe autism symptoms had more serious eating problems. These eating issues can lead to other health problems, so the researchers suggest having different types of doctors work together to help these children.

This study examined atypical eating behaviors (AEB) in 180 children aged 2-5 years with autism spectrum disorders, including childhood autism, atypical autism, and Asperger syndrome. Researchers identified three clinical variants: catatonic-regressive (41%), catatonic (45%), and hyperdynamic (13%). The catatonic-regressive variant showed the most severe eating behaviors, while hyperdynamic showed the least severe. Eating behavior severity correlated with cognitive development issues and the primary autism symptoms.

Catatonia and regression increased eating behavior problems, potentially leading to secondary physical health complications. The authors recommend multidisciplinary medical involvement for rehabilitation and prevention of health complications.

Multidisciplinary approach recommended for children with autism and eating difficulties. Assessment should consider autism subtype when evaluating eating behaviors. More intensive intervention may be needed for catatonic variants to prevent secondary health complications.

Study design unclear from abstract. Sample demographics heavily skewed toward girls (61%). No control group mentioned. Unclear how clinical variants were determined or validated. Long-term outcomes not reported.

To study atypical eating behavior (AEB) in various variants of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to determine the prognosis and therapeutic tactics. One hundred and eighty patients (110 girls, 70 boys), aged 2 to 5 years (mean age 4 years), with a diagnosis of «Childhood autism» (F84.02), «Atypical autism» (F84.1), «Asperger Syndrome» (F84.5) and the presence of AEB were examined. Three clinical variants of ASD accompanied by AEB were identified: catatonic-regressive (75, 41%), catatonic (81, 45%) and hyperdynamic (24, 13%). The most pronounced AEB were in the catatonic-regressive variant, and the least in the hyperdynamic variant of ASD.

The severity of AEB is associated with the severity of cognitive dysontogenesis. The characteristics of AEB are associated with the leading clinical syndrome of ASD. The severity of catatonia and regression affects the depth of AEB, which leads to secondary somatic disorders. Specialists of various profiles should participate in medical work for successful rehabilitation and prevention of somatic complications.