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Autism

New Insights into Autism Spectrum Disorders: Study Finds Nucleated Red Blood Cell Count Predictive of Severity

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

A groundbreaking study published in the International Journal of Developmental Neuroscience has shed new light on the relationship between nucleated red blood cell (nRBC) count and the severity of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in preschool children. The research, conducted by Gulhane Training and Research Hospital in Ankara, Turkiye, analyzed the complete blood count parameters of 68 ASD cases and found that the nRBC count, platelet count, and intellectual disability were significant predictors of ASD severity. The study's findings suggest that the nRBC count may be a valuable biomarker for assessing the severity of ASD in young children.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study found that the nRBC count was positively correlated with ASD severity in preschool children, with a higher count associated with milder cases of ASD.
  • The platelet count and intellectual disability were also significant predictors of ASD severity, with higher counts associated with more severe cases.
  • The study's findings suggest that the nRBC count may be a useful biomarker for assessing ASD severity in young children.
  • The study included 68 ASD cases and used the Childhood Autism Rating Scale to determine the severity of the disorder.
  • Regression history and intellectual disability data were obtained from the medical records of the participants.
  • The nRBC count was found to be statistically higher in male ASD cases than in female ASD cases.
  • The study's results suggest that the nRBC count and platelet count may be useful in predicting the severity of ASD in preschool children.

Statistics:

  • 68 ASD cases were included in the study.
  • The nRBC count was positive in 11.5% of the participants.
  • The nRBC count in male ASD cases was found to be statistically higher in mild/moderate cases than in severe cases.
  • The study found no significant differences in complete blood count parameters between ASD and control groups.

Sources:

  • Evaluation of Nucleated Red Blood Cell Levels in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: Relationship With Disorder Severity. International Journal of Developmental Neuroscience, 2025;85(6). (Elsevier - www.elsevier.com)
  • International Journal of Developmental Neuroscience, 111 River St, Hoboken 07030-5774, NJ, USA. (Wiley, www.wiley.com)
  • NewsRx LLC, Study Findings from Gulhane Training and Research Hospital Provide New Insights into Autism Spectrum Disorders (Evaluation of Nucleated Red Blood Cell Levels in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: Relationship With Disorder Severity). Mental Health Weekly Digest, November 3, 2025; p 838.

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