Researchers find new clues to Autism

A genetic mutation that increases the risk for a certain form of autism and causes specific physical traits and symptoms has been identified by researchers, NewsMax Health reported.

The finding may eventually enable doctors to do pre-birth testing for the CHD8 gene mutation in order to identify babies who are at risk for autism, according to the study authors.

Early detection of autism -- a neurodevelopmental disorder -- is critical in treating the disorder. Previous research suggests that beginning treatment when children are just a few months old can lessen or even prevent autism symptoms from developing, the researchers said.

Researchers looked at more than 6,000 children with autism and found that 15 had a CHD8 gene mutation. All 15 of those children had similar physical characteristics -- such as larger heads and prominent foreheads -- and symptoms such as sleep disturbances, constipation and other gastrointestinal problems.

However, children with autism are incredibly diverse so the genetic causes of different other subtypes should be determined to find effective overall treatments.

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