Hormone Linked to Social Difficulties With Autism.

Vasopressin is a hormone that maintains blood pressure. According to a new study conducted in the Stanford School of Medicine, this hormone may play a role in social behavior in children with autism.  The researchers evaluated levels of vasopressin in the blood and compared them with those in the cerebrospinal fluid of 28 children and adults. Participants were divided into three groups (children with autism, children with siblings with autism and children with no siblings with autism). Children were tested for cognitive, emotional and social skills. The study found that low levels of vasopressin affected only those children who suffered from autism. What are some of your favorite resources for counseling/educating parents and/or patients with autism?

For more information please see Webmed.

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