When autism is of known origin (caused by a known genetic anomaly or exposure), it is referred to as secondary autism. When autism is of unknown origin, it is called idiopathic autism.
Known and Unknown Causes of Autism
While there are over a dozen established causes of autism, most are very rare genetic disorders or prenatal exposures. As a result, approximately 85% of autism cases are idiopathic.
In other words, in the vast majority of cases:
A child is born to parents who are not autistic Autism is not a known part of the child’s family history The child was not premature The parents were under 35 years old Tests did not uncover genetic anomalies (such as Fragile X syndrome) that might cause autism in the child The mother was not exposed to or taking any of the drugs known to increase the risk of autism while she was pregnant (rubella, valproic acid, and thalidomide are known to cause autism in unborn children)
Heredity, Genetics, and Autism Risk
Heredity does play a role in autism: having one child with autism does increase the likelihood that your next child may also be autistic. This is a concern to bear in mind when planning your family’s future.
According to the National Human Genome Research Institute, “The risk that a brother or sister of an individual who has idiopathic autism will also develop autism is around 4% plus an additional 4% to 6% risk for a milder condition that includes language, social or behavioral symptoms. Brothers have a higher risk (about 7%) of developing autism, plus the additional 7% risk of milder autism spectrum symptoms, over sisters whose risk is only about 1% to 2% percent.”
While we know that heredity plays a role in autism, however, we don’t know exactly how or why. Dozens of genes seem to be involved in autism, and research is ongoing. There is no existing genetic test to determine whether a parent “carries” autism or whether a child (or fetus) is likely to develop autism.
Genetic mutation may also cause autism. Genetic mutation can occur for many different reasons and may or may not be related to parents’ genetics. Genetic mutation occurs frequently but does not always result in physical or developmental challenges.
Because we know so little (so far) about genetics and autism, it’s rare that a diagnostician can draw a direct line between a particular genetic anomaly and a particular person’s autism.
Theories About Environmental Exposures
There has been a rise in cases of autism, and theories about why abound. While there are certainly people who believe there is a connection between some of the following and autism, there is no solid evidence to support this.
Ultrasound used to monitor fetal growthVaccines given to young childrenCell phone usage among parentsAllergies to peanuts and glutenPrevalence of Lyme disease
Autism presents itself differently in different people. This suggests a variety of causes and, perhaps, a variety of syndromes with some (but not all) symptoms in common.
A Word From Verywell
The reality is that, for most autism parents, there will never be a clear answer to the question “why did my child develop autism?” While this can be terribly frustrating, the good news is that causes don’t really matter when it comes to taking action for your child’s future. Whether your child’s autism was the result of a genetic difference, a prenatal exposure, a mutation, or heredity, the same therapies and treatments are likely to be helpful. Rather than spending a great deal of time and money seeking reasons, in most situations the better route is to spend that time, money, and energy on helping your child reach their potential.
