What is the Relationship between Autism Spectrum Disorders and Epilepsy?

The association of epilepsy and autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is best understood by examining the relationship between social cognition, non-social cognition, and epilepsy. The relationship between ASD and epilepsy is bi-directional and is strongly linked to intellectual disability (ID). The risk of developing ASD in children with epilepsy is highest in children with early onset seizures, with a high prevalence in children with infantile spasms. The risk of developing epilepsy in children first diagnosed with ASD is highest in those with ID.
Source: Seminars in Pediatric Neurology - Category: Neurology Authors: Source Type: research