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Association between migraine and autism spectrum disorder: a case series of 10 patients

Eduardo Souza Cardoso, Gabriel Eduardo Pereira Cardoso, Adileia Santos da Silva, Carla Soares Souza, Maria da Gloria Canto de Sousa, Ana Patrícia Pascoal Queiroz de Araújo, G. Cardoso, Jéssica de Andrade Ribeiro Lima et al.

Arquivos de Neuro-Psiquiatria, 2024

10 participants

Abstract

Background: Migraine is a common neurological disorder marked by severe headaches, nausea, and sensitivity to light and sound. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Level 1 support is characterized by difficulties in social interaction, communication, and restricted behaviors, often accompanied by sensory hypersensitivity and emotional dysregulation. This case series explores the overlap between migraine and ASD Level 1 support in 10 patients, emphasizing sensory hypersensitivity and emotional dysregulation. Objective: This study aims to explore the association between migraine and subsequent diagnosis of ASD Level 1 support, with a focus on sensory hypersensitivity and emotional dysregulation observed during clinical follow-ups. Methods: We included 10 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of migraine. These patients were followed up regularly and assessed for symptoms indicative of ASD Level 1 support. The focus was on identifying signs of sensory hypersensitivity and emotional dysregulation, which are common in both migraine and ASD. Results: The study included 10 patients, with a mean age of 32 years, comprising 7 females and 3 males. Migraine with aura was present in 60% of cases, with an average duration of migraine diagnosis of 5 years. The average time to ASD diagnosis was 2 years after the migraine diagnosis. All patients exhibited heightened sensitivity to light and sound during migraine episodes, and these sensory sensitivities persisted as characteristics of ASD.…

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a case series, done in people. Its evidence level is 5 of 5 (Very low · case / narrative / animal / in vitro / in silico). Case reports, narrative reviews, and animal, cell or computer-model studies give the weakest evidence for human health. Reported size: 10 participants or records.

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