Abstract
To determine the genetic relationship between head circumference (HC) and Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs). Twin pairs with at least one twin with an ASD were assessed. HCs in affected and unaffected individuals were compared, as were HC correlations in monozygotic and dizygotic pairs. 404 subjects, ages 4–18, were included. 20 % of males and 27 % of females with an ASD had macrocephaly. Unaffected co-twins showed similar rates (16 % of males and 22 % of females). Statistical analysis revealed no significant difference in HCs between affected and unaffected twins. Twins with ASDs and unaffected co-twins have similar HCs and increased rates of macrocephaly. Correlations demonstrated partial inheritance of HCs. Thus, macrocephaly may represent an endophenotype in ASDs.
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Acknowledgments
We would like to thank the participating families for their time and dedication. Our thanks is also given to the National Institute of Mental Health (Grant R01MH067005) and Autism Speaks for funding the California Autism Twins Study.
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Froehlich, W., Cleveland, S., Torres, A. et al. Head Circumferences in Twins With and Without Autism Spectrum Disorders. J Autism Dev Disord 43, 2026–2037 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-012-1751-1
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-012-1751-1