Outcome and prognostic factors in infantile autism and similar conditions: a population-based study of 46 cases followed through puberty

J Autism Dev Disord. 1987 Jun;17(2):273-87. doi: 10.1007/BF01495061.

Abstract

This follow-up study reports data from a population-based series of children in the Göteborg region of Sweden diagnosed in childhood as suffering from infantile autism and other childhood psychoses and followed through to the ages of 16-23 years. The results of the study are in good accord with the only previous population-based study of the same kind. IQ at diagnosis and communicative speech development before 6 years were the most important prognostic factors, but other trends were seen that also compare favorably with previous studies. Some previously unreported trends also emerged.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Autistic Disorder / diagnosis*
  • Autistic Disorder / psychology
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • In Vitro Techniques
  • Intelligence
  • Male
  • Puberty*
  • Sexual Maturation
  • Social Adjustment