Developmental regression must be recognised and children and families properly supported, says new research.
Researchers in Melbourne, London and Texas say there are “significant knowledge gaps within and between conditions that feature developmental regression”.
Regression sees children lose skills such as talking. It is most recognisable in autism, severe epilepsy with developmental delay, the neurological disorder Rett syndrome, and the genetic disorder Phelan McDermid syndrome.
Alex regressed as a three-year-old, but is now making good progress at a mainstream school
Call for more research
Led by paediatrician Dr Kirsten Furley, the scientists call for more research to “advance knowledge” and “improve child and family outcomes through earlier recognition and support”.
Parent Veronica, who did not want to give her surname, told how her 15-year-old son Alex regressed when he was three years old.
Research scientist Veronica, from Chester, said Alex lost “social and communication” skills after getting a flu jab.
She said: “Soon after, he started to put cars and things in rows, which I hadn’t seen before.”
Veronica said she investigated nutritional and dietary therapies and her son is now making good progress at a mainstream school.
Example of ‘diagnostic overshadowing’
Biomedical charity Thinking Autism says many of the families it supports have seen significant regressions “after one, two or more years of normal development, hitting all milestones”.
Others have seen regressions in their teens explained away as autism.
In a statement, the charity said this is “yet another example of egregious diagnostic overshadowing”.
Diagnostic overshadowing happens when medics ignore the impact of other health problems and attribute everything to autism.
Possible causes
Experts have suggested various causes for regression, including the body’s own immune system attacking the brain.
It has also been linked to neuroplasticity, or how far the brain can rewire itself, as this process is essential for learning and development.
The research is online in the journal Cortex.
Related:
- Regression linked to autoimmune issues
- One in three children see regression
- Children who regress can miss diagnosis
Published: 27 October 2023
