Non communication of pain – Pathognomonic of Autism?

Background:

Background: Non communication of pain has been observed clinically in children with Autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However its prevalence and pervasiveness has not been systematically documented.

Objectives:

The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of clinically observed phenomenon of non communication of pain (NCP) in children with Autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Methods:

Method: NCP was assessed based on a parent administered semi structured interview. Parents of 4 groups of children were selected: (a) children with ASD (b) siblings of children with ASD without diagnosis of ASD, (c) children with a diagnosed psychiatric condition other than ASD and (4) children with no psychiatric diagnosis

Results:

Results: Analysis of results revealed that the phenomenon of NCP was specific to ASD.

Conclusions:

The implications of these findings for the diagnosis, screening and clinical management of ASD are discussed.