On the aetiology of autism

摘要: I have suggested that the primary environmental trigger for autism is not vaccinations, toxins or infections, but gestational and early childhood vitamin D deficiency (1,2). Subsequently, title of an article in Scientific American recently asked, ‘What if a cause autism?’ (3) Since then, on Acta Paediatrica (4) accompanying commentary (5) added to accelerating suspicion – either during pregnancy may be genetic disease autism. will repeat evidence from my original 2007 paper am well aware consistent with theory proof theory. Instead, concentrate papers published since paper, overlooked when researching paper. Finally, explain reasons why this deserves immediate attempts disprove it. Simultaneous above two publications, elsewhere reported among 117 adult psychiatric outpatients Sweden various diagnoses, 10 patients had lowest levels any groups studied, mean 12 ng ⁄mL (31 nM), approaching osteomalacic range adults rachitic children (6). Even more interesting, some seemed improve treated average dose about 4000 IU ⁄day. The authors did say improvement occurred group. A 2008 review detailed devastating effect has developing mammalian brains (7). Unfortunately, tiny lg (400 IU) prenatal vitamins virtually irrelevant preventing current epidemic (8). For reason, 2007, Canadian Paediatric Society cautioned pregnant women they require 400 ⁄day 2000 ⁄day, more, prevent (9). If adequate amounts autism, one would expect rickets increased risk To knowledge, neuropsychiatric symptoms been studied modern era. However, at least old addressed it (10,11), both before Kanner described 1943. Both describe ‘weak mindedness,’ ‘feeble minds,’ ‘mental dullness,’ unresponsiveness developmental delays. intriguing, report mental condition improved D. Another mysteries apparent incidence richer college-educated parents, especially women, finding announced few months ago (12). Actually, new finding. As discussed known 1980s was dismissed as being because ascertainment bias. This very recent correlates CDC (13), which found similar wealthy well-educated, Articles series Different View are edited by Alan Leviton (alan.leviton@childrens.harvard.edu). We encourage you offer your own different view response do fully agree with, unrelated topic. ISSN 0803–5253