Children with autism spectrum disorders and selective mutism

Abstract

BackgroundIt has been suggested that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) might be a “comorbid” condition in selective mutism (SM).MethodsIn this retrospective study, we examined medical records of children with SM diagnosis (n=97) at a medical center specializing in assessment of ASD.ResultsMean age for onset of SM symptoms was 4.5 years and mean age at SM diagnosis was 8.8 years. SM was more common among girls (boy:girl ratio=2.7:1). We found that 63% of the study group had an ASD (no gender difference). The SM group with combined ASD had later onset of symptoms, higher age at diagnosis, more often a history of speech delay, and a higher proportion of borderline IQ or intellectual disability.ConclusionThe results highlight the risk of overlap between ASD and SM.

Mutism in an adult case with autism spectrum disorder improved by aripiprazole

“…To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of an adult with ASD with a communication disability that was improved by ARI treatment. Although the diagnosis of ASD in adults is difficult [1], our patient's diagnosis of ASD was apparent after his long-term history was obtained from his family and the diagnosis of schizophrenia was carefully considered and excluded. His symptom of selective mutism was considered a partial symptom of ASD.…”

“…was 22 points. After a discussion with his family and his physician (S.S.) about the risks and benefits of medications, the patient consented to treatment with an SSRI (fluvoxamine, which we selected based on literature reviews [1][2][3][4] of the uses of SSRIs for treating ASD), in conjunction with an explanation to him and his family of his mutism from a psychological point of view, and also to his family what attitude they should take to him in daily life. The patient began taking fluvoxamine (75mg/day).…”

“…Selective mutism is a common symptom in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), mainly in children, but it has also been observed in adults [1]. The prevalence of mutism among adults with ASD patients is not yet known, as is also the case for children with ASD [1].…”

“…Selective mutism is a common symptom in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), mainly in children, but it has also been observed in adults [1]. The prevalence of mutism among adults with ASD patients is not yet known, as is also the case for children with ASD [1]. The use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) to treat selective mutism has been supported by at least two systematic reviews [1,2].…”

“…The prevalence of mutism among adults with ASD patients is not yet known, as is also the case for children with ASD [1]. The use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) to treat selective mutism has been supported by at least two systematic reviews [1,2]. Although symptoms of ASD have been relieved by non-pharmacological interventions, such interventions for mutism often fail.…”