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Editor's Choice Main Category: Epilepsy Also Included In: Autism Article Date: 16 May 2013 - 10:00 PDT Current ratings for: Link Between Epilepsy And Autism Found The finding was discovered by Dr. SallyAnn Wakeford, a PhD student from the University's Department of Psychology, and revealed a previously unknown link between epileptic seizures and the signs of autism in adults. Traits of autism, such as impaired communication and social interaction and restricted and repetitive interests, can be serious and go undetected for several years - creating a lasting impact on the lives of those who endure them. The investigators found that epileptic seizures interfere with the neurological function that affects social functioning in the brain - causing the same characteristics that depict autism. Dr Wakeford said: The researchers revealed that having elevated autistic traits was standard to all types of epilepsy, however, it was more evident for adults with Temporal Lobe Epilepsy (TLE). The authors believe one reason may be because anti-epileptic medications are many times less effective for TLE. These drugs may cause an impact because they are significantly related to the severity of autistic characteristics. Dr. Wakeford and her colleagues conducted a comprehensive range of studies with participants who … Continue reading →

Many adults with epilepsy showed autistic traits Epileptic seizures disrupt the neurological function that affects social functioning in brains This results in the same traits seen in autism, such as impaired social interaction and communication By Anna Hodgekiss PUBLISHED: 18:35 EST, 15 May 2013 | UPDATED: 18:35 EST, 15 May 2013 A link between epilepsy and autism has been discovered for the first time. Breakthrough research from the University of Bath found adults with epilepsy have higher traits of autism and Asperger syndrome. It found epileptic seizures disrupt the neurological function that affects social functioning in brains, resulting in the same traits seen in autism. These characteristics include impairment in social interaction and communication as well as restricted and repetitive interests. Researchers found that epileptic seizures disrupt the neurological function that affects social functioning in brains, resulting in the same traits seen in autism SallyAnn Wakeford, a PhD student at the university's Department of Psychology, said the traits could be 'severe' and go unnoticed for many years, having a great impact on the lives of those experiencing them. Dr Wakeford said: 'The social difficulties in epilepsy have been so far under-diagnosed and research has not uncovered any underlying theory to … Continue reading →