Trizygotic Triplets with Autistic Spectrum Disorders: Case Report and Literature Review

Autistic spectrum disorders (ASD) are characterized by severe qualitative impairments in socialization, communication, and restricted repetitive behavior, interests and activities. Although the etiology is unknown, it is now believed that ASD are highly polygenic and, environmental factors may interact with genetic factors to increase the risk for ASD. The estimated concordance rate of ASD was reported to be 0-10% in dizygotic twins. To our knowledge, however, no study was available about trizygotic triplets with ASD. In this article, trizygotic triplets diagnosed with ASD were reported and the literature was reviewed to discuss the possible mechanisms of this condition. (Archives xx Neuropsychiatry 2012; 49: 167-171)