Biomarker could help diagnose autism in kids

Researchers at the University of Washington believe they
have identified a potential biomarker that could help
diagnose autism.

James Woods, a professor emeritus of environmental and
occupational health sciences at the UW School of Public
Health, said certain types of metabolites in urine could
indicate which children are at risk of developing the
developmental disorder.

“We evaluated a biological product that we know is linked
to pathways that are associated with neurological
functions,” Woods said. “We think this is an important
breakthrough in terms of identifying a clinical indicator
that could be used to identify children with autism.”

The discovery could lead to a quicker diagnosis for
autism, which currently can only be identified through a
series of behavioral tests. Early intervention is key to
reducing more severe symptoms.

Autism is characterized by impaired social behavior and
communication, among other symptoms.

The findings were published in the
April
edition of Autism Research.