Demanda de cuidado nutricional de crianças com transtorno do espectro autista em uma região de acesso remoto / Demandas de atención nutricional de niños con trastorno del espectro autista en una región de acceso remoto / Nutritional care demands of children with autism spectrum disorder in a remote access region

Introdução: O transtorno do espectro autista é uma condição neuropsiquiátrica que demanda atenção interdisciplinar e multiprofissional. A abordagem nutricional é necessária frente aos possíveis sintomas associados, como seletividade alimentar e alterações do hábito intestinal. Famílias residentes em locais de acesso limitado à serviços de saúde podem possuir dificuldades para o adequado acompanhamento. Objetivo: Relatar a experiência de atendimentos em nutrição realizados pela Liga Acadêmica de Nutrição e Saúde Coletiva a crianças com transtorno do espectro autista explorando as principais demandas identificadas e enfrentadas em uma região de acesso remoto. Metodologia: Abordagem descritiva, do tipo relato de experiência, de atendimentos realizados no município de Coari, interior do Amazonas. Os encontros foram realizados com vista a identificar demandas e refletir sobre a melhor maneira de auxiliar as crianças com essas comorbidades. Resultados: Foram atendidas 9 crianças, nem todas com o diagnóstico fechado. Seletividade alimentar, distúrbios gastrointestinais e excesso de peso foram desafios recorrentes. Nota-se a carência da percepção da importância do acompanhamento nutricional, em um cenário de relatos importantes sobre as dificuldades no acesso a medicações, por falta no município ou por ausência de recursos para aquisição, assim como terapias especializadas. Aspectos que se tornam ainda mais desafiadores frente à distância geográfica e carência de profissionais especializados e que realizem uma atenção multiprofissional. Conclusões: O acompanhamento nutricional adequado é essencial para atender às necessidades específicas e melhorar a qualidade de vida dessas crianças. Diante das limitações identificadas na região, são necessários esforços contínuos para desenvolver soluções que garantam uma assistência inclusiva e eficaz às crianças com transtorno do espectro autista no interior do Amazonas. A colaboração entre instituições, a conscientização da comunidade e o fortalecimento da rede de saúde local são cruciais para promover uma abordagem abrangente e de alta qualidade para essas crianças e suas famílias (AU).

Introduction: Autism spectrum disorder is a neuropsychiatric condition that demands interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary attention. Nutritional intervention is necessary in the face of possible associated symptoms, such as food selectivity and changes in bowel habits. Families living in places with limited access to health services may have difficulties in obtaining adequate support and follow-up.Objective: Reporting the experience of nutrition services provided by the Academic League of Nutrition and Public Health to children with autism spectrum disorder, exploring the main identified demands and challengesfaced in a remote access region. Methodology:Descriptive approach, experience of an report, of services provided in the municipality of Coari, in the interiorof Amazonas. The meetings were held with the aim identifying demands and reflecting on the best way to assistchildren with these comorbidities. Results: Ninechildren attended to, not all with a confirmed diagnosis. Food selectivity, gastrointestinal disorders and overweight were recurring challenges. There is a lack of perception of the importance of nutritional monitoring, in a scenario where there areimportant reportsofdifficulties in accessing medications, either due to lack of availability in the municipality or lack of resources for acquisition, as well as specialized therapies. Theseaspects become even more challenging given the geographical distance and scarcity of specialized professionals whocanprovide multidisciplinary care. Conclusions: Adequate nutritional monitoring is essential to meet the specific needs and improve the quality of life of these children. Given the limitations identified in the region, continuous efforts are needed to develop solutions that guarantee inclusive and effective assistance for children with autism spectrum disorder in the interior of Amazonas. Collaboration between institutions, community awareness, and strengthening the local health network are crucial to promoting a comprehensive, high-quality approach for these children and their families (AU).

Introducción: El trastorno del espectro autista es una condiciónneuropsiquiátrica que requiere atención interdisciplinaria y multidisciplinaria. El enfoque nutricionales frente a losposibles síntomas, como selectividad alimentaria y alteraciones delhábitosintestinales. Las familias que viven en lugares con accesolimitado a los servicios de salud pueden tener dificultades para recibir un seguimiento adecuado. Objetivo: Reportar la experiencia de los servicios de nutrición brindados por la Liga Académica de Nutrición y Salud Pública a niños con trastorno del espectro autista, explorando las principales demandas identificadas y enfrentadas en una región de acceso remoto.Metodología: Enfoque descriptivo, relato de experiencia, de los servicios prestados en Coari, en el interior de Amazonas. Los encuentros se realizaron con el objetivo de identificar demandas y reflexionar sobre la mejor manera de ayudar. Resultados:Se atendieron 9 niños, no todos con diagnóstico confirmado. Selectividad alimentaria, trastornos gastrointestinales y exceso de peso fueron desafíos recurrentes. Se observa una falta percepción de la importancia del seguimiento nutricional, en un escenario de informes importantes sobre las dificultades en el acceso a medicamentos, debido a lafaltade suministro en el municipio o a la falta de recursos para su adquisición, así como terapias especializadas. Estosaspectos que se vuelven aún más desafiantes dada la distancia geográfica y falta de profesionales especializados que brinden una atención multidisciplinaria.Conclusiones: Un adecuado seguimiento nutricional es fundamental para satisfacerlas necesidades específicas y mejorar la calidad de vida de estos niños. Antelas limitaciones identificadas, se necesitan esfuerzos continuos para desarrollar soluciones que garanticen una atención inclusiva y efectiva estosniños en el interior de Amazonas. Colaboración entre instituciones, concientización comunitaria y fortalecimiento de la red de salud local son cruciales para promover un enfoque integral y de alta calidad para estos niños com trastorno del espectro autista y sus familias (AU).

Effect of enriched environment combined with acupuncture at head points on behavior in rats with autism spectrum disorder / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo observe the effect of enriched environment (EE) combined with acupuncture at head point (HA) on behavior in rats with autism spectrum disorder. MethodsHealthy female Wistar rats were given peritoneal injection of sodium valproate at 12.5 days of gestation. Twenty-four male offspring rats were randomly selected and then randomly divided into model group (n = 6), EE group (n = 6), HA group (n = 6) and EE combined with HA group (the combined group, n = 6). Six male offspring rats born from female mice injected with the same amount of saline intraperitoneally were as control group. After four weeks of treatment, all the five groups were tested with three-chamber test and marble burying test, and the sociability index, the social novelty index and the number of buried marbles were recorded. The levels of interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6 in peripheral blood were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). ResultsAfter treatment, compared with the model group, the sociability index and the social novelty index improved (P < 0.05), the number of buried marbles reduced (P < 0.05), and the levels of IL-6 and IL-1β in peripheral blood decreased in EE group, HA group and the combined group (P < 0.05); while the combined group was the best (P < 0.01). ConclusionBoth EE or acupuncture at HA could improve behavioral symptoms, and reduce the expression of inflammatory factors in rats with autism spectrum disorder. The combination of the two methods showed the best result.

Characteristics of interbrain synchrony during interactions among individuals with autism spectrum disorder: a scoping review / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo review the characteristics of interbrain synchrony between individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and healthy individuals during interactions. MethodsResearches on interbrain synchrony during interactions in individuals with ASD were retrieved from databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and CNKI in November, 2023. Researches were screened and the relevant data were extracted. The quality of the methodology was evaluated using critical appraisal tool for analytic cross sectional study. ResultsFive researches were returned, publicated mainly from 2020 to 2023, including 130 individuals with ASD. Interbrain synchrony was lower during the interaction task in the individuals with ASD compared with the healthy, mainly involving the prefrontal and temporo-parietal joint regions; as well as the interbrain synchrony of theta, alpha and beta bands of electroencephalography. There was difference in interbrain synchrony between genders in individuals with ASD; furthermore, abnormal interbrain synchrony in individuals with ASD associated with social impairment. ConclusionInterbrain synchrony deficits may be a potential neural mechanism for social impairment in individuals with ASD, and the abnormalities mainly happen in the brain areas related with mirror nervous system and theories of mind network.

Evaluation of Animal Model of Autism Spectrum Disorders Based on Characteristics of Clinical Symptoms of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveBased on the new method of animal model evaluation， this paper summarized and analyzed the characteristics of traditional Chinese medicine（TCM） and Western medicine syndromes in existing autism spectrum disorder（ASD） animal models， and put forward suggestions for improvement. MethodRelevant literature on ASD animal models in China National Knowledge Infrastructure（CNKI） and PubMed were searched. According to the diagnostic standards of traditional Chinese and western medicine， core symptoms and accompanying symptoms were assigned values， and the clinical consistency of the models was comprehensively evaluated. ResultMost ASD model experimental animals were rodents， and the modeling methods included genetic and non-genetic. Domestic research focused on biochemical induction， while foreign research used genetic models more commonly. Among all models， valproic acid induction had the highest clinical consistency， followed by the neuroligin 4（NLGN4） and contactin associated protein like 2（CNTNAP2） gene knockout models. Most modeling methods could meet the characteristics of surface validity and structural validity， but did not clearly distinguish TCM syndromes. Currently， there is no model that has a high degree of clinical agreement between TCM and western medicine at the same time. ConclusionThe existing ASD animal models are mostly constructed under the guidance of western medicine， which lacks the characteristics of TCM syndromes. And the selection of evaluation indicators of western medicine is relatively single， without specifying the types of TCM syndromes. It is recommended to apply TCM intervention factors during the process of model preparation， to improve the evaluation indicators of traditional Chinese and western medicine， and to emphasize the study of on non-human primates， so as to lay a solid foundation for future experiments.

Effect of response interruption and redirection as a behavioral intervention on vocal stereotypy in children with autism spectrum disorder: a scoping review / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo review the effect of response interruption and redirection intervention on vocal stereotypy in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). MethodsLiteratures on response interruption and redirection intervention for vocal stereotypy in children with ASD were retrieved from databases of EBSCO, PubMed, Web of Science, CNKI, and Wanfang data. The information of the literatures was extracted to conduct a scoping review. ResultsA total of 16 English literatures were included. All researches employed a single-subject time series study design. A total of 41 children with ASD were involved. Significant differences were found in levels of basic verbal functioning of children with ASD. Vocal stereotypy was characterized by both verbal and nonverbal forms. Most of the reviewed researches used experimental functional assessment to analyze the function of vocal stereotypy. In most cases, the function of vocal stereotypy was automatic reinforcement. Iwata et al.'s paradigm was dominantly adopted in performing experimental functional assessment across researches. Other related paradigms developed based on Iwata et al.'s paradigm to make operating process more concise were also used for experimental functional assessment in reviewed researches. Response disruption and redirection was often conducted in individualized setting, with a few researches conducted in special education classes. The time and frequency of interventions varied widely across subjects due to the levels of impairment in vocal stereotypy and other behaviors. According to a comparison of the effects of traditional response interruption and redirection and its morphing procedures, it was found that changing the content of the redirection task, reducing the number of redirection tasks, and varying the duration of execution did not impact the improvement of vocal stereotypy. Based on the comparisons of response interruption and redirection with matched stimuli, response cost, verbal manipulation training, and medication, it was found that both response interruption and redirection and other methods (except for medication) could reduce vocal stereotypy and promote the emergence of appropriate behaviors in children with ASD. Combining response interruption and redirection with other techniques, such as stimulus matching and response costs, yielded more favorable improvement of vocal stereotypy in children with ASD. ConclusionASD children with vocal stereotypy show different levels of functional language, and vocal stereotypy is generally characterized by both verbal and nonverbal formats. The function of vocal stereotypy is mostly automatic reinforcement. Response interruption and redirection as a behavioral intervention is mostly conducted in individualized setting, and the time and frequency of interventions depend on the levels of vocal stereotypy and other behaviors problems. Changing the content and number of redirection instructions does not significantly influence the improvement of vocal stereotypy in children with ASD. Other intervention methods such as matching stimulus and response cost are able to reduce vocal stereotypy in children with ASD, but response interruption and redirection used in conjunction with these methods show more favorable improvements. Response interruption and redirection interventions can not only reduce vocal stereotypy in children with ASD, but also increase appropriate vocalizations, task engagement and command obedience.

Effect of pivotal response training for children with autism spectrum disorder： a systematic review / 四川精神卫生

The purpose of this article is to systematically review the effectiveness of pivotal response training （PRT） for children with autism spectrum disorder （ASD）， so as to provide evidence-based guidance for the implementation of effective PRT for children with ASD. Randomized controlled trials （RCTs） investigating the effectiveness of PRT for children with ASD were collected， and the methodological quality of the trails was evaluated using the Cochrane Collaboration's tool for risk of bias assessment. A total of 6 RCTs were included in this review. Then the empirical findings including the implementation of PRT and the role of PRT in improving general social skills and verbal communication skills of children with ASD were elaborated. And its limitations and possible future research directions were also summarized. ［Funded by Special Project for Construction of Innovation Environment in Autonomous Region： Construction of Science and Technology Innovation Base （number， PT2306）］

Repercussões psicossociais da pandemia da covid-19 para mães de crianças com transtorno do espectro autista / Psychosocial repercussions of the covid-19 pandemic for mothers of children with autism spectrum disorder / Repercusiones psicosociales de la pandemia de covid-19 en las madres de niños con trastorno del espectro autista

RESUMO Objetivo: compreender as repercussões psicossociais da pandemia da COVID-19 para mães de crianças com Transtorno do Espectro Autista. Método: estudo qualitativo, com a participação de 22 mães. Os dados foram coletados de maio a julho de 2022, no interior da Paraíba, Brasil, por meio de uma Dinâmica de Criatividade e Sensibilidade. A análise deu-se através do referencial teórico-analítico da análise de discurso francesa. Resultados: medo, ansiedade, angústia, preocupações assumiram um lugar central no movimento dialógico das mães. Diante das demandas e reconfigurações na rotina, houve uma sobrecarrega física, emocional e psicológica, com repercussões na vida materna. A solidão pôde ser evidenciada pela frágil ou inexistente rede de apoio durante o período pandêmico. Conclusão: o estudo pode subsidiar a reflexão sobre as repercussões da pandemia na vida de mães de crianças com autismo e viabilizar a elaboração de ações que priorizem a saúde mental, auxiliando-as na superação de momentos de adversidades.

ABSTRACT Objective: to understand the psychosocial repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic for mothers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Method: a qualitative study, with participation of 22 mothers. The data were collected from May to July 2022 in the inland of Paraíba, Brazil, through the Dynamics of Creativity and Sensitivity. The analysis took place through the theoretical-analytical framework of French discourse analysis. Results: fear, anxiety, anguish and concerns assumed a central place in the mothers' dialogical movement. Faced with the demands and reconfigurations in the routine, there was physical, emotional and psychological overload, with repercussions on maternal life. Loneliness can be seen in the weak or non-existent support network during the pandemic. Conclusion: the study can support reflection on the repercussions of the pandemic on the lives of mothers of children with autism and enable the development of actions that prioritize mental health, helping them to overcome moments of adversity.

RESUMEN Objetivo: comprender las repercusiones psicosociales de la pandemia de COVID-19 en las madres de niños con Trastorno del Espectro Autista. Método: estudio cualitativo, con la participación de 22 madres. Los datos fueron recolectados de mayo a julio de 2022, en el interior de Paraíba, Brasil, mediante una Dinámica de Creatividad y Sensibilidad. El análisis se realizó siguiendo el marco teórico-analítico del análisis del discurso francés. Resultados: el miedo, la ansiedad, la angustia y las preocupaciones ocuparon un lugar central en el movimiento dialógico de las madres. Ante las exigencias y reconfiguraciones de la rutina, las madres sufrieron una sobrecarga física, emocional y psicológica que afectó su vida. La soledad se puede ver en la débil o nula red de apoyo que tuvieron durante la pandemia. Conclusión: el estudio puede contribuir a la reflexión sobre las repercusiones de la pandemia en la vida de las madres de niños con autismo y posibilitar el desarrollo de acciones que prioricen la salud mental que las ayuden a superar momentos de adversidad.

The challenges for early intervention and its effects on the prognosis of autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review / Os desafios para a intervenção precoce e seus efeitos no prognóstico do transtorno do espectro autista: uma revisão sistemática

ABSTRACT. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is expressed with neurobehavioral symptoms of different degrees of intensity. It is estimated that, for every three cases detected, there are two cases that reach adulthood without treatment. Objective: To establish what challenges are still present in the implementation of early intervention (EI) and its effects on the prognosis of ASD. Methods: A systematic review using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (Prisma) methodology was carried out in the PubMed and ScienceDirect databases in January 2023. The search keywords were "autism spectrum disorder", "early intervention" and "prognosis". Results: Sixteen studies were included, two randomized and 14 non-randomized. Knowledge about the signs of ASD, diagnostic and therapeutic methods, age at the start of treatment, and socioeconomic factors were the main challenges encountered in the implementation of the EI. Conclusion: EI is capable of modifying the prognosis of ASD and challenges in its implementation persist, especially in developing regions with low socioeconomic status.

RESUMO. O transtorno do espectro autista (TEA) expressa-se com sintomas neurocomportamentais de diferentes graus de intensidade. Estima-se que, para cada três casos detectados, existam dois casos que atingem a idade adulta sem tratamento. Objetivo: Estabelecer quais são os desafios ainda presentes na implementação efetiva da intervenção precoce (IP) e quais são os seus efeitos no prognóstico do TEA. Métodos: Revisão sistemática com a metodologia Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (Prisma) foi realizada nos bancos de dados PubMed e ScienceDirect em janeiro de 2023. As palavras-chave da pesquisa foram "autism spectrum disorder", "early intervention" e "prognosis". Resultados: Dezesseis estudos foram incluídos, sendo dois randomizados e 14 não randomizados. O conhecimento sobre os sinais do TEA, os métodos diagnósticos e terapêuticos, a idade de início de tratamento e os fatores socioeconômicos foram os principais desafios encontrados na implementação da IP. Conclusão: A IP é capaz de modificar o prognóstico do TEA e os desafios em sua implementação ainda afetam, principalmente, regiões em desenvolvimento e de baixo status socioeconômico.

O que dizem familiares de autistas sobre o trabalho desenvolvido pelos CAPSi? / What do family members of autistic people say of the work carried out by the CAPSi?

Resumo A política de saúde mental infantojuvenil, implantada no Brasil no início do século XXI, estabeleceu os Centros de Atenção Psicossocial Infantojuvenis (CAPSi) como equipamentos estratégicos para priorizar os casos de maior complexidade, com destaque para os autistas. Este estudo visa cotejar duas fontes de informação sobre a percepção de familiares de autistas acerca do trabalho desenvolvido pelos CAPSi: a primeira foi colhida em pesquisa de 2011, que utilizou grupos focais; e a segunda, a partir da literatura produzida sobre o tema nos 10 anos seguintes. As narrativas foram organizadas em quatro eixos temáticos: percepção sobre os efeitos do trabalho psicossocial; compartilhamento de informações; percepção sobre os processos de cuidado; e demandas e reivindicações. A despeito da heterogeneidade entre os estudos, os resultados indicaram que o trabalho dos CAPSi produz efeitos positivos, principalmente em relação à socialização. Contudo, essa percepção não é acompanhada de melhor entendimento do quadro clínico e dos processos de cuidado. O valor do tratamento é frequentemente atribuído à atitude pessoal dos profissionais, indicando a ausência de compartilhamento e participação dos familiares. Esses aspectos devem instigar os CAPSi a envolver os familiares como parceiros do cuidado, dando atenção especial à transmissão da lógica psicossocial, suas estratégias e direção do cuidado.

Abstract The child and adolescent mental health policy, implemented in Brazil from the beginning of the 21st century, established the Centros de Atenção Psicossocial Infantojuvenis (CAPSi - Psychosocial Care Centers for Children and Adolescent) as strategic services to prioritize more complex cases, with emphasis on autism. This study aims to compare two sources of information on the perception family members of autistic people regarding the work carried out by CAPSi: the first was collected in a 2011 survey, which used focus groups; and the second, from the literature produced on the subject in the following 10 years. The family member's narratives were organized into four thematic axes: perception of the effects of psychosocial care; information sharing; perception about care processes; and demands and claims. Despite the heterogeneity between the studies, the results indicated that the work of the CAPSi produces positive effects, especially regarding socialization. However, this perception is not accompanied by a better understanding of the clinical picture and care processes. The value of treatment is often attributed to the personal attitude of professionals, indicating the lack of sharing and participation by family members. These aspects should encourage the CAPSi to involve family members as partners in care, particularly valuing the transmission of the psychosocial reasoning, its strategies and direction of care.

Breastfeeding and autism spectrum disorder: case-control study / Transtorno do espectro do autismo e aleitamento materno: estudo de caso controle

Abstract Objectives: to evaluate the association between breastfeeding and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in children and adolescents. Methods: this is a case-control study carried out in the north of the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, which included 248 children and adolescents diagnosed with ASD (case group) and 886 children and adolescents without a diagnosis of ASD (control group).Interviews were conducted with the mothers of children and adolescents and a semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data. For data analysis, a multiple logistic regression model was adopted. The magnitude of associations was estimated by the odds ratio (OR). Three multiple models were fitted: Model 1: presence or absence of breastfeeding; Model 2: duration of breastfeeding; Model 3: duration of exclusive breastfeeding. Results: ASD was associated with the absence of breastfeeding in the three adjusted models: Model 1: OR=2.1, CI95%=1.1-4.1; Model 2: OR=2.3, CI95%=1.2-4.5; Model 3: OR=2.3, CI95%=1.2-4.5. Conclusions: individuals with ASD were more likely to have not received breastfeeding, however, due to the nature of case control studies, it cannot be stated that breastfeeding prevents ASD. Conducting a cohort study may clarify this relationship.

Resumo Objetivos: avaliar a associação entre aleitamento materno e Transtorno do Espectro do Autismo (TEA) em crianças e adolescentes. Métodos: trata-se de um estudo caso-controle realizado no norte de Minas Gerais, Brasil, que incluiu 248 crianças e adolescentes com diagnóstico de TEA (grupo caso) e 886 crianças e adolescentes sem diagnóstico de TEA (grupo controle). Foram realizadas entrevistas com as mães das crianças e adolescentes e utilizado um questionário semiestruturado para coleta dos dados. Para análise dos dados foi adotado modelo de regressão logística múltipla. A magnitude das associações foi estimada pela Odds Ratio (OR). Três modelos múltiplos foram ajustados: Modelo 1: presença ou ausência de aleitamento materno; Modelo 2: duração do aleitamento materno; Modelo 3: duração do aleitamento materno exclusivo. Resultados: o TEA foi associado à ausência de aleitamento materno nos três modelos ajustados: Modelo 1: OR=2,1, IC95%=1,1-4,1; Modelo 2: OR=2,3, IC95%=1,2-4,5; Modelo 3: OR=2,3, IC95%=1,2-4,5. Conclusões: os indivíduos com TEA tiveram maiores chances de não terem recebido aleitamento materno, no entanto, devido à natureza dos estudos de caso-controle, não se pode afirmar que o aleitamento materno previna o TEA. A realização de um estudo de coorte poderá esclarecer essa relação.

Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of cannabidiol-rich cannabis extract in children with autism spectrum disorder: randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled clinical trial

Abstract Objective Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction and by restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior. Some studies have shown that substances derived from Cannabis sativa improve the quality of life of children with ASD without causing serious adverse effects, thus providing an alternative therapeutic option. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a cannabis extract rich in cannabidiol (CBD) in children with ASD. Methods In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, 60 children, aged from 5 to 11 years, were selected and divided into two groups: the treatment group, which received the CBD-rich cannabis extract, and the control group, which received the placebo. They both used their respective products for a period of 12 weeks. Statistical analysis was done by two-factor mixed analysis of variance (two-way ANOVA). Results Significant results were found for social interaction (F1,116 = 14.13, p = 0.0002), anxiety (F1,116 = 5.99, p = 0.016), psychomotor agitation (F1,116 = 9.22, p = 0.003), number of meals a day (F1,116 = 4.11, p = 0.04), and concentration (F1,48 = 6.75, p = 0.01), the last of which was only significant in mild ASD cases. Regarding safety, it was found that only three children in the treatment group (9.7%) had adverse effects, namely dizziness, insomnia, colic, and weight gain. Conclusion CBD-rich cannabis extract was found to improve one of the diagnostic criteria for ASD (social interaction), as well as features that often co-exist with ASD, and to have few serious adverse effects.

Análisis de los criterios de valoración utilizados para casos de pensión vitalicia en un niño con Autismo. Reporte de un caso con enfoque médico legal / Analysis of the evaluation criteria used for life pension cases in a child with Autism. Report of a case with a forensic medical approach

El Trastorno del Espectro Autista (TEA), es trastorno del neurodesarrollo que se caracteriza por algún grado de dificultad en la interacción social y la comunicación, que comienza en el periodo de desarrollo temprano, y se clasifica según el grado de severidad en grado 1, 2 y 3, según lo establecido en el DSM-5. Dicho Trastorno se encuentra abarcado por la Ley 7125 de Pensión Vitalicia para Personas con Parálisis Profunda, y su reforma 8769. Con el objetivo de analizar los criterios establecidos para la valoración de estos procesos, se presenta el caso de una persona masculina de 6 años con diagnóstico de TEA, de quien se interpuso demanda para ser tomado en cuenta dentro de dicha Ley. En el mismo y tras el análisis respectivo, de acuerdo con los datos de la literatura científica actualizada, y de los criterios establecidos, se pudo constatar que si calificaba según lo indicado en la Ley 7125.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is characterized by some degree of difficulty in social interaction and communication, which begins in the early development period, and is classified according to the degree of severity in grade 1, 2 and 3, as established in the DSM-5. Said Disorder is covered by Law 7125 of Life Pension for people with deep cerebral palsy, and its reform 8769. In order to analyze the criteria established for the assessment of these processes, the case of a 6-year-old male person with diagnosis of ASD, of whom a lawsuit was filed to be taken into account within said Law. In it and after the respective analysis, according to the data of the updated scientific literature, and the established criteria, it was possible to verify that if qualified as indicated in Law 7125.

Prosodia del español en personas con trastorno del espectro autista. Una revisión de alcance

La prosodia, que incluye la entonación, el ritmo, las pausas y el acento, es importante en la comunicación. En el trastorno del espectro autista, la prosodia se ve afectada en su expresión y comprensión, lo que dificulta la comprensión del lenguaje y añade una barrera en la comunicación social. El objetivo del estudio es realizar una revisión de alcance basada en las publicaciones disponibles entre los años 2012 y 2022 sobre prosodia del español en personas con trastorno del espectro autista. Se consideraron todos los artículos indexados sobre el tema, desde la perspectiva del área de la lingüística clínica. Se consultaron las bases de datos Scopus, Clarivate Analytics, Wos Of Science y algunas otras. Los criterios de la metodología PRISMA fueron aplicados para seleccionar los artículos. Se obtuvieron 8 textos, de los cuales solo 3 cumplieron con el criterio de inclusión. Una investigación estudiaba el acento en personas con trastorno del espectro autista; otra las pausas; mientras un estudio trataba sobre la validación de una prueba para evaluar la prosodia pragmática. La investigación sobre la prosodia en personas con trastorno del espectro autista en diferentes variantes del español es escasa, lo cual impide caracterizar adecuadamente los rasgos prosódicos en esta población.

Prosody, which includes intonation, rhythm, pauses, and stress, is important in communication. In autism spectrum disorder, prosody is affected in its expression and comprehension, which makes it difficult to understand language and adds a barrier to social communication. The objective of the study is to carry out a scoping review based on the publications available between 2012 and 2022 on Spanish prosody in people with autism spectrum disorder. All indexed articles on the subject were considered, from the clinical linguistics area perspective. The Scopus, Clarivate Analytics, Wos Of Science and some other databases were consulted. The PRISMA methodology criteria were applied to select the articles. 8 texts were obtained, of which only 3 met the inclusion criteria. The research studied the accent in people with autism spectrum disorder; another pauses; while a study dealt with the validation of a test to assess pragmatic prosody. Research on prosody in people with autism spectrum disorder in different variants of Spanish is scarce, which prevents adequate characterization of prosodic features in this population.

COVID-19: isolamento social e suas consequências na vida de crianças com transtorno do espectro autista / COVID-19: social isolation and consequences in the lives of children with autistic spectrum disorder / COVID-19: el aislamiento social y sus consecuencias en la vida de los niños con trastorno del espectro autista

Objetivo: conhecer as percepções de profissionais de saúde acerca das consequências do isolamento social, causado pela pandemia da COVID-19, no desenvolvimento e na vida de crianças com Transtorno do Espectro Autista. Método: estudo exploratório, descritivo e de abordagem qualitativa, apoiado nos referenciais do Cuidado Centrado na Família e da Análise de Conteúdo de Bardin e aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa. Desenvolvido em municípios do interior paulista, de setembro a outubro/2021, com participação de doze profissionais de saúde. Resultados: as experiências apreendidas estiveram representadas nas categorias temáticas: "Interrupção das terapêuticas e estratégias profissionais", "Implicações da pandemia no desenvolvimento da criança autista" e "Isolamento social da pandemia e a dinâmica familiar da criança com autismo". Conclusão: o isolamento social decorrente da pandemia do coronavírus interferiu na vida das crianças autistas e suas famílias, com consequências ao desenvolvimento social, motor, linguístico e pedagógico.

Objective: to know the guidelines of health professionals about the consequences of social isolation, caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, on the development and lives of children with Autistic Spectrum Disorder. Method: field study, exploratory, descriptive and with a qualitative approach, supported by the references of Family-Centered Care and Bardin's Content Analysis and approved by the Research Ethics Committee. Developed in municipalities in the interior of São Paulo, from September to October/2021, with the participation of twelve health professionals. Results: the experiences learned followed instructions in the thematic categories: "Interruption of therapies and professional strategies", "Implications of the pandemic on the development of the autistic child" and "Social isolation of the pandemic and the family dynamics of the child with autism". Conclusion: the social isolation resulting from the coronavirus pandemic interfered in the lives of autistic children and their families, with consequences for social, motor, linguistic and pedagogical development.

Objetivo: conocer las percepciones de los profesionales de la salud en cuanto a las consecuencias del aislamiento social, provocado por la pandemia de la COVID-19, en el desarrollo y la vida de los niños con Trastorno del Espectro Autista. Método: estudio exploratorio, descriptivo y con enfoque cualitativo, apoyado en los referenciales del Cuidado Centrado en la Familia y el Análisis de Contenido de Bardin y aprobado por el Comité de Ética en Investigación. El estudio tuvo lugar en municipios del interior de São Paulo, de septiembre a octubre/2021, contando con la participación de doce profesionales de la salud. Resultados: las experiencias aprendidas se representaron por las categorías temáticas: "Interrupción de terapias y estrategias profesionales", "Implicaciones de la pandemia en el desarrollo del niño autista" y "Aislamiento social de la pandemia y la dinámica familiar del niño con autismo". Conclusión: el aislamiento social resultante de la pandemia del coronavirus interfirió en la vida de los niños autistas y sus familias, con consecuencias para el desarrollo social, motor, lingüístico y pedagógico.

Impacto de la pandemia por COVID-19 en la conducta alimentaria de niñas, niños y adolescentes con trastorno del espectro autista / Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the eating behaviors of children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder

Introducción. Los niños con trastorno del espectro autista (TEA) presentan dificultades de adaptación a situaciones estresantes, como la pandemia por COVID-19. Objetivo. Evaluar el impacto del primer año de pandemia en las dificultades alimentarias de niños con TEA. Población y métodos. Se invitó a participar a cuidadores de niños con TEA no sindromático (edad: 2-18 años) de una unidad de neurodesarrollo. Los participantes respondieron en línea un cuestionario y la escala de evaluación de problemas de conducta alimentaria (BPFAS por su sigla en inglés) antes y durante el primer año de pandemia. Se calculó un puntaje de prioridad (producto entre promedio de frecuencia y problema) para cada ítem del BPFAS. Resultados. El 56,6 % (86/152) de los cuidadores contestó la encuesta (madre 74,4 %), mediana de edad 6,3 años (p25-p75: 4,7-8,2); el 80,2 % de los niños eran de sexo masculino; el 58,1 % mantuvo terapia durante la pandemia y el 61,6 % presentaba problemas de comportamiento previo a esta. Durante el primer año de pandemia, los niños presentaron mayor intensidad en dificultades conductuales (34,9 %) y de alimentación (61,6 %); sin embargo, el 31,4 % refirió mejoría en la alimentación. No existieron diferencias significativas entre puntajes BPFAS antes y durante la pandemia. Los ítems con mayor puntaje de prioridad fueron "se levanta de la mesa durante la hora de comer", "no probar alimentos nuevos", "no come verduras", "no come frutas". Conclusiones. Hubo alta frecuencia de dificultades en las conductas alimentarias durante el primer año de pandemia. No se presentaron diferencias en las características de estas conductas antes y durante la pandemia.

Introduction. Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have difficulties adapting to stressful situations, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Objective. To assess the impact of the first year of the pandemic on feeding difficulties in children with ASD. Population and methods. The caregivers of children and adolescents with non-syndromic ASD (age: 2­18 years) from a neurodevelopment unit were invited to participate. Participants completed a questionnaire and the Behavioral Pediatrics Feeding Assessment Scale (BPFAS) online before and during the first year of the pandemic. A priority score (product between the average frequency and the problem) for each BPFAS item was estimated. Results. Among the caregivers, 56.6% (86/152) completed the survey (mother: 74.4%); children's median age was 6.3 years (p25­p75: 4.7­8.2); 80.2% of children were males; 58.1% continued with their therapy during the pandemic; and 61.6% had behavioral problems before the pandemic. During the first year of the pandemic, children had greater behavioral problems (34.9%) and feeding difficulties (61.6%); however, 31.4% of caregivers referred improvements in feeding. There were no significant differences in the BPFAS scores before and during the pandemic. The following items obtained the highest priority scores: gets up from table during meal, does not try new food, does not eat vegetables, does not eat fruits. Conclusions. A high frequency of feeding difficulties was noted during the first year of the pandemic. No differences were observed in feeding characteristics before and during the pandemic.

Assistance to families of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Perceptions of the multiprofessional team / Assistência às famílias de crianças com Transtornos do Espectro Autista: percepções da equipe multiprofissional / Asistencia a familias de niños con Trastornos del Espectro Autista: percepciones del equipo multidisciplinario

Abstract Objective: to synthesize the care provided by health professionals, at different care levels, to the families of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Method: a qualitative study, based on the Family-Centered Care philosophical theoretical framework and developed with 22 professionals from three multidisciplinary teams from the Health Care Network of a municipality in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. The data were collected through two focus groups with each team, organized with the support of the Atlas.ti 8 Qualitative Data Analysis® software and submitted to Thematic Content Analysis. Results: the findings show actions centered on specific situations, especially on the demands and needs arising from the child's care and atypical behavior. Influencing factors for family care, such as work overload and little professional experience, show the weakness of multiprofessional care and the invisibility of the family as a care unit. Conclusion: the need is highlighted to review functioning of the network for the multiprofessional care of children and their families and how such network is organized. It is recommended to offer permanent education actions that contribute to the qualification of multiprofessional teams in the care of families of children in the autism spectrum.

Resumo Objetivo: sintetizar o cuidado prestado por profissionais de saúde, nos diferentes níveis de atenção, às famílias de crianças com Transtornos do Espectro Autista. Método: estudo qualitativo, baseado no referencial teórico filosófico do Cuidado Centrado na Família, desenvolvido com 22 profissionais de três equipes multidisciplinares de serviços da Rede de Atenção à Saúde de um município do estado de Mato Grosso do Sul, Brasil. Os dados foram coletados por meio de dois grupos focais com cada equipe, organizados com apoio do software Atlas.ti 8 Qualitative Data Analysis e submetidos à Análise Temática de Conteúdo. Resultados: as descobertas mostram ações centradas em situações pontuais, principalmente nas demandas e necessidades advindas do cuidado da criança e de seu comportamento atípico. Fatores influenciadores para o cuidado à família, como a sobrecarga de trabalho e a pouca experiência profissional, evidenciam a fragilidade da assistência multiprofissional e a invisibilidade da família enquanto unidade de cuidado. Conclusão: destaca-se a necessidade de rever o funcionamento e modo como a rede para o cuidado multiprofissional da criança e sua família está organizada. Recomenda-se a oferta de ações de educação permanente que contribuam com a qualificação das equipes multiprofissionais no cuidado às famílias de crianças no espectro do autismo.

Resumen Objetivo: resumir la atención que brindan los profesionales de la salud, en los diferentes niveles de atención, a las familias de niños con Trastornos del Espectro Autista. Método: estudio cualitativo, basado en el marco teórico filosófico de la Atención Centrada en la Familia, desarrollado con 22 profesionales de tres equipos multidisciplinarios de servicios de la Red de Atención de la Salud en un municipio del estado de Mato Grosso do Sul, Brasil. Los datos fueron recolectados a través de dos grupos focales con cada equipo y organizados con la ayuda del software Atlas.ti 8 Qualitative Data Analysis ® y sometidos al Análisis de Contenido Temático. Resultados: los hallazgos muestran acciones enfocadas en situaciones específicas, principalmente en las demandas y necesidades que genera el cuidado del niño y su comportamiento atípico. Factores que influyen en la atención a la familia, como la sobrecarga de trabajo y la poca experiencia profesional, revelan las falencias que tiene la asistencia multidisciplinaria y la invisibilidad de la familia como unidad de atención. Conclusión: es necesario examinar el funcionamiento y la forma en que está organizada la red para la atención multidisciplinaria de los niños y sus familias. Se recomienda implementar acciones de educación continua que contribuyan a la capacitación de los equipos multidisciplinarios para la atención a las familias de niños con espectro autista.

O que é a ecolalia para o autismo segundo a literatura? / What is echolalia for autism according to the literature?

Objetivo: Descrever, segundo a literatura, a relação entre o Transtorno do Espectro Autista e a ecolalia. Método: Realizou-se uma revisão integrativa da literatura científica na BVS, PubMed e Scielo, utilizando os descritores DECS/MESH "Transtorno do Espectro Autista AND ecolalia" e "Autism Spectrum Disorder AND Echolalia" combinados pelo operador booleano "AND". Resultados: Predominaram estudos qualitativos (35,7%) com baixo nível de evidência (92,8%). A maioria das pesquisas (78,6%) foi conduzida nos Estados Unidos da América em 2021, com participantes de 1 a 40 anos, sendo a ecolalia frequentemente observada em crianças de 2 anos (28,6%). A abordagem ao tratamento da ecolalia foi mencionada em apenas 21,4% dos estudos, destacando métodos comportamentais. Conclusão: A ecolalia, fenômeno persistente no TEA, é uma notável peculiaridade na comunicação verbal, apresentando variações imediatas, tardias e mitigadas. Suas implicações continuam a desafiar o desenvolvimento e as intervenções clínicas.(AU)

Objective: To describe, based on the literature, the relationship between Autism Spectrum Disorder and echolalia. Method: An integrative review of scientific literature was conducted using BVS, PubMed, and Scielo databases, employing the DECS/MESH descriptors "Autism Spectrum Disorder AND echolalia" and "Autism Spectrum Disorder AND Echolalia" combined with the Boolean operator "AND." Results: Qualitative studies predominated (35.7%) with low levels of evidence (92.8%). The majority of research (78.6%) was conducted in the United States in 2021, involving participants aged 1 to 40, with echolalia frequently observed in 2-year-old children (28.6%). The approach to echolalia treatment was mentioned in only 21.4% of the studies, emphasizing behavioral methods. Conclusion: Echolalia, a persistent phenomenon in Autism Spectrum Disorder, represents a notable peculiarity in verbal communication, exhibiting immediate, delayed, and mitigated variations. Its implications continue to challenge development and clinical interventions.(AU)

Objetivo: Describir, según la literatura, la relación entre el Trastorno del Espectro Autista y la ecolalia. Método: Se realizó una revisión integrativa de la literatura científica en las bases de datos BVS, PubMed y Scielo, utilizando los descriptores DECS/MESH "Trastorno del Espectro Autista AND ecolalia" y "Autism Spectrum Disorder AND Echolalia" combinados con el operador booleano "AND". Resultados: Predominaron los estudios cualitativos (35,7%) con un bajo nivel de evidencia (92,8%). La mayoría de las investigaciones (78,6%) se llevaron a cabo en Estados Unidos en 2021, con participantes de 1 a 40 años, siendo la ecolalia observada con frecuencia en niños de 2 años (28,6%). El enfoque para el tratamiento de la ecolalia se mencionó solo en el 21,4% de los estudios, destacando métodos conductuales. Conclusión: La ecolalia, un fenómeno persistente en el Trastorno del Espectro Autista, representa una notable peculiaridad en la comunicación verbal, mostrando variaciones inmediatas, tardías y mitigadas. Sus implicaciones siguen desafiando el desarrollo y las intervenciones clínicas.(AU)

Apraxia de fala na infância e transtorno do espectro do autismo: revisão integrativa / Childhood apraxia of speech and Autism Spectrum Disorder: integrative review / Apraxia infantil del habla e Trastorno del espectro autista: revisión integradora

Introdução: o Transtorno do Espectro do Autismo (TEA) é um transtorno do neurodesenvolvimento caracterizado por dificuldades persistentes na interação social e na comunicação oral. A Apraxia de Fala Infantil (AFI) é um distúrbio neurológico que afeta os sons da fala. Há relatos que apontam uma relação entre TEA e AFI. Objetivo: descrever os achados sobre AFI e dificuldades comunicativas em crianças com TEA. Estratégia de pesquisa: trata-se de uma revisão integrativa da literatura, realizada nas bases de dados Biblioteca Virtual de Saúde (BVS), National Library of Medicine (Medline via Pubmed), Cochrane, Scopus e Web of Science. Critérios de seleção: foram selecionados artigos sem limite de data de publicação e em seguida a leitura de títulos e resumos. Os critérios de Inclusão foram: artigos completos que abordassem Autismo e AFI, publicados em português e inglês, em periódicos nacionais e internacionais. Como critério de exclusão, foram desconsiderados os estudos com crianças acima de 5 anos, 11 meses e 29 dias, idosos e adolescentes e também artigos que não abordassem a AFI em crianças com TEA. Análise dos dados: Foi realizada a leitura dos artigos por títulos e resumos e a extração de dados para caracterizar a metodologia e o conteúdo da pesquisa. Resultados: foram selecionados 15 artigos para leitura na íntegra, os quais foram separados de acordo com dois eixos temáticos, relacionados ao TEA e AFI. Conclusão: os achados demonstram a falta de consenso na correlação entre AFI e TEA. (AU)

Introduction: The Disorder of the Autistic Spectrum (ASD) is a disorder of neurodevelopment characterized by persistent difficulties in social interaction and oral communication. Infantile apraxia of speech is a neurological disorder that affects who speak. There are stories that point to a relationship between disorders. Purpose: To describe the findings about Childhood Apraxia of Speech and communicative difficulties of children with ASD. Research strategy: It is an integrative revision of the literature, made under the basis of the data from Biblioteca Virtual de Saúde National Library of Medicine, COCHRANE, SCOPUS and WEB OF SCIENCE. Selection criteria: There was a selection of papers with no publishing date limit and, afterwards, there was the reading of titles and summaries. The inclusion criteria were: complete papers which addressed ASD and Apraxia of Speech, issued in Portuguese and English in national and international journals. As an exclusion criterion, the studies with children over 5 years 11 months and 29 days old, senior citizens and adolescents were not considered, which was also true for papers that did not address the Childhood Apraxia of Speech in children suffering from ASD. Data analysis: The reading of the papers was made by titles and summaries and the extraction of data to characterize the methodology and the research content. Results: There was the selection for full reading of 15 papers which had been separated according to two thematic axes related to ASD and Apraxia of Speech. Conclusion: The findings demonstrate the lack of consensus between the disorders. (AU)

Introducción: el Trastorno del Espectro Autista (TEA) es un trastorno del neurodesarrollo caracterizado por dificultades persistentes en la interacción social y la comunicación oral. La apraxia del habla infantil (AFI) es un trastorno neurológico que afecta a los niños que hablan. Hay historias que apuntan a una relación entre TEA y AFI.Objetivo: describir los hallazgos sobre la apraxia infantil del habla y las dificultades comunicativas en niños con TEA. Estrategia de investigación: se trata de una revisión integrativa de la literatura, realizada en las bases de datos Biblioteca Virtual en Salud (BVS), Biblioteca Nacional de Medicina (Medline vía Pubmed), Cochrane, Scopus y Web of Science. Criterios de selección: se seleccionaron artículos sin límite de datos de publicación y luego se leyeron títulos y resúmenes. Se publicaron artículos de inclusión: artículos completos que abordan el Autismo y la infancia, publicados en portugués e inglés, en revistas nacionales e internacionales. Como criterios de exclusión, se descartaron estudios con niños mayores de 5 años, 1 mes y 29 días, niños y adolescentes y también artículos que no aborden la praxis del habla en el TEA. Análisis de datos: Los artículos fueron leídos por títulos y resúmenes, y el artículo de datos para caracterizar la metodología y la investigación. Resultados: Se seleccionaron 15 artículos para lectura completa, los cuales fueron separados según dos ejes temáticos, relacionados con el TEA y la apraxia del habla en la infancia. Conclusión: los hallazgos deben tener una falta de consenso entre la ocurrencia de transtornos. (AU)

Mercurio y trastornos del neurodesarrollo en niños: una revisión sistemática / Mercury and neurodevelopmental disorders in children: A systematic review

El mercurio es un metal tóxico que puede atravesar la placenta y la barrera hematoencefálica, y causar la interrupción de varios procesos celulares. Estudios han investigado la exposición al mercurio y trastornos en el neurodesarrollo, por lo que se requiere un análisis crítico y riguroso de esta evidencia. El objetivo de esta revisión fue evaluar la evidencia científica disponible sobre los efectos de la exposición al mercurio durante las etapas prenatal y posnatal, y su relación con el desarrollo de trastornos neuroconductuales. Se realizó una búsqueda sistemática en las bases de datos MEDLINE y ScienceDirect; los resultados se presentaron a través de tablas y síntesis narrativa. Solo 31 estudios cumplieron los criterios de elegibilidad. En general, la evidencia es limitada sobre los efectos de la exposición al mercurio y trastornos del neurodesarrollo en niños. Entre los posibles efectos reportados, se hallan problemas en el aprendizaje, autismo y trastorno por déficit de atención e hiperactividad.

Mercury is a toxic metal which can cross the placenta and the blood-brain barrier and cause the disruption of various cellular processes. Studies have investigated mercury exposure and neurodevelopmental disorders; therefore, a critical and rigorous analysis of this evidence is required. The objective of this review was to evaluate the available scientific evidence on the effects of mercury exposure during the prenatal and postnatal periods and its relationship with the development of neurobehavioral disorders. A systematic search of the MEDLINE and ScienceDirect databases was conducted; the results were presented in tables and narrative synthesis. Only 31 studies met the eligibility criteria. Overall, the evidence on the effects of mercury exposure and neurodevelopmental disorders in children is limited. Learning disabilities, autism, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder were some of the reported potential effects.

Avaliação da comunicação social de crianças até 12 anos com Transtorno do Espectro Autista em Centro de Atendimento Psicossocial / Evaluation of the social communication of children up to 12 years old with Autism Spectrum Disorder in a Psychosocial Care Center

Objetivo: Caracterizar a comunicação social em crianças até 12 anos diagnosticadas com Transtorno do Espectro Autista (TEA) atendidos no Centro de Atenção Psicossocial Infantil (CAPSi) da cidade de Mossoró/RN. Métodos: Pesquisa exploratória, descritiva, quantitativa, transversal, realizada no CAPSi de Mossoró/RN. A coleta de dados baseou-se na aplicação de questionários aos pais/responsáveis, para caracterizar suas condições socioeconômicas e sua percepção sobre seus filhos. Foi utilizado o instrumento Avaliação do Desenvolvimento da Linguagem (ADL) para crianças, desenvolvido para avaliar a aquisição e desenvolvimento de conteúdo (semântica) e estrutura (morfologia e sintaxe) da linguagem. Os questionários foram codificados e os dados foram tabulados para posterior análise estatística. Resultados: Foram estudadas 33 crianças e 73 pais/responsáveis. A maioria dos pais/responsáveis era do sexo feminino (95,9%), predominantemente na faixa etária de 30-39 anos (média de 37,6 anos), com cônjuge (60%), com ensino médio completo (45%) e renda mensal em torno de um salário-mínimo (76,7%), possuindo atitudes positivas em relação aos filhos e notando dificuldades na comunicação destes. Na aplicação do questionário com as crianças, 63,7% apresentaram resultados na faixa de normalidade, enquanto 3% apresentaram alteração leve e 33,3% alteração grave de linguagem. Conclusão: Crianças com TEA frequentadoras do CAPSi apresentam alterações de linguagem no subnível pragmático e mais da metade dos participantes não apresenta alterações morfossintáticas e semânticas

Objective: To characterize social communication in children up to 12 years old diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) treated at the Child Psychosocial Care Center (CAPSi) in Mossoró/RN. Methods: Exploratory, descriptive, quantitative, cross-sectional study conducted at CAPSi in Mossoró/RN. The data collection was based on the application of questionnaires to parents/guardians to characterize their socioeconomic conditions and their perception of their children. The Language Development Assessment (LDA) instrument for children was used, developed to assess the acquisition and development of language content (semantics) and structure (morphology and syntax). The questionnaires were coded, and the data were tabulated for further statistical analysis. Results: 33 children and 73 parents/guardians were studied. Most parents/guardians were female (95.9%), aged 30-39 years (mean age 37.6 years predominantly), with a partner (60%), with high school education (45%), and monthly income around one minimum wage (76.7%), having positive attitudes toward their children and noticing difficulties in their communication. In applying the questionnaire to the children, 63.7% presented results within the normal range, while 3% presented mild and 33.3% severe language alterations. Conclusion: Children with ASD attending CAPSi have language disorders in the pragmatic sublevel, and more than half of the participants did not have morphosyntactic and semantic changes