Scientists Develop Software for Earlier Autism Detection

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Researchers form the Missouri University said they have now identified facial measurements in children with autism. The new identification technique, which uses 3D imaging and statistical software, may give a lead to genetical cause of autism.

“We want to detect the specific facial traits of the face of a child with autism,” said Ye Duan, associate professor of computer science in the College of Engineering at MU, as quoted by The Daily Mail.

“Doing so might help us define the facial structures common to children with autism and potentially enable early screening for the disorder.”

The research involved children aged ranging from 8 to 12 years that is divided into two groups. The group's analyses revealed three distinct subgroups of children with autism who had similar measurement patterns in their facial features.  These subgroups also shared similarities in the type and severity of their autism symptoms.

According to Judith Miles, one of the researchers, next step will be to invite other researchers to analyze DNA to find certain genes relate to the types of autism.

“Identifying genes associated with each subtype of autism could potentially lead to the development of more effective treatments and drug therapies,” Miles said.

THE DAILY MAIL | URSULA FLORENE SONIA