Children of mothers who have autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, celiac disease or type 1 diabetes, are at greater risk of having autism, a new study shows.
A new study, published online in the journal Pediatrics, looked at more than 689,196 children born in Denmark between 1993 and 2003. Scientists found 3,325 of these children were diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders and discovered that many also had a family history of autoimmune diseases.
Autoimmune diseases develop when the body fails to recognize its own organs and tissues, attacking them as it would a dangerous invader.
An increased risk of autism in children with a maternal history of Celiac disease – a condition where people can’t digest gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye and barley was determined. Researchers also referenced previous studies that found an increased risk of autism in children whose moms had rheumatoid arthritis or type 1 diabetes.
Children of mothers with celiac disease had a 197 percent increased risk of autism, while children of mothers with rheumatoid arthritis had a 56 percent increased risk. Those with moms who had type 1 diabetes had a 114 percent increased risk.
They also found a 78 percent increased risk of autism if the father had type 1 diabetes, but not if the father had arthritis or celiac disease.
Researchers say their results suggest a complex association between family history of certain autoimmune diseases and autism, (Hjördis Osk Atladottir, MD the lead author of the study done at the University of Aarhus in Aarhus, Denmark.)
The researchers also stressed that current or future parents with an autoimmune diseases shouldn’t worry too much about the study results because the large majority of people affected by these conditions do not have children with autism
This study doesn’t mean it proves that autoimmune disorders cause autism. It doesn’t mean this is the case for all children with autism. But it may be helpful because it adds to the existing body of research.   Familial history may be increasingly relevant in differential diagnosis / early intervention decisions. Other considerations include maternal diet, genetic history, infections during pregnancy, and intrauterine development. Do not be afraid to ask genetic, prenatal, birth, and developmental questions..your impressions will not be complete without this relevant information.
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