21 Exploring the clinical presentation and health service utilization in autistic children and adolescents diagnosed with avoidant / restrictive food intake disorder: A descriptive study
Authors: Smile Sharon , Raffaele Christie , Perlin Rebecca , Chen Lorry , Barreira Lesley , Rossinsky Stasia , Moroz Lianne , Dupuis Annie , Johnstone Julie , Freeman Nancy , Katzman Debra 
Published: October 2024

Background

Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) is an eating disorder with much clinical variability, negatively impacting growth, nutrition, psychosocial functioning and overall well-being. ARFID is more frequently reported in neurotypical populations than in neurodivergent populations. Little is known about the clinical presentation and healthcare utilization of autistic individuals with ARFID.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to understand the clinical presentation, laboratory abnormalities and health system utilization amongst autistic individuals diagnosed with ARFID within the community.

Design/Methods

We completed a comprehensive multidisciplinary assessment on autistic individuals less than18 years of age who were diagnosed with ARFID by their community physician. Recruitment period: June 2020-June 2021.

Results

Nineteen autistic individuals completed a comprehensive multidisciplinary assessment; of these, 42.1% (8/19) met criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) severity level 1. The onset of restrictive eating manifested at M(SD)= 2.5 (0.7) years, and the age of ASD diagnosis was 4.2 (3.8) years. Of these, 78.9% (15/19) had the onset of feeding difficulties either prior to or at the time of their ASD diagnosis (Figure 1). Dependence on enteral feeding or nutritional supplements (74%), psychosocial impairment (68%), and nutritional deficiencies (42%) were the criteria commonly met for ARFID. Sensory-based avoidance (100%) and lack of interest in food (89%) were the two most reported potential drivers for the dysfunctional feeding behaviour based on the Pica , ARFID, and Rumination Disorder Interview-AR-Q. Neurodevelopment disorder comorbidities included ADHD (26.3%), Anxiety (21.1%), and Intellectual Developmental Disability (15.8%). Constipation (68.4%) and nutritional deficits (63.15%) were the most common medical comorbidities recorded. Nutritional profile revealed Vitamin D deficit in 50% (8/16), Anaemia 21% (4/19), Vitamin B1 deficit 20% (2/10). Additionally, three participants (17.7%, 3/17) had deficits in Vitamin B12, Zinc, Vitamin C and low ferritin levels. Four autistic individuals (21.1%, 4/19) were hospitalized because of their restrictive eating. 68.4% (13/19) autistic individuals had involvement of at least one allied health professional (OT or SLP or BT). No participants had a prior multidisciplinary feeding assessment or intervention to address restrictive eating.

Conclusion

ARFID is an eating disorder observed within autistic individuals. Evidence suggests food related sensory sensitivities and lack of interest in food are potential drivers of ARFID in the context of ASD. A comprehensive multidisciplinary assessment is needed to elucidate factors driving restrictive eating to inform targeted evidence-based interventions.