New brain scan shows siblings-with-autism link | abc7.com

June 12, 2012

New brain scan shows siblings-with-autism link

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- New brain scans may change the way doctors think

about autism. The latest statistics show autism affects 1 in 88 children

in the United States. Catching it early is key in treating the problem.

Now, special imaging may help detect autism sooner than ever before.

Siblings have a 1-in-5 chance of developing autism.

In a one-of-a-kind study, University of North Carolina researchers used

a special kind of MRI called diffusion tensor imaging. It follows the

movement of water through brain tissue. This allows scientists to look

at 15 different brain connections in babies who had a sibling with

autism. They found significant differences in 12 of the 15 connections

in those who developed autism.

Kids without the disorder have stronger connections. Kids with autism

are more likely to have a weaker connection.

" The children who went on to have autism, we can see differences as

early as six months, and that over time, their brains changed less, "

said Dr. Wolff, author of the study at University of North

Carolina School of Medicine....

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