Higher plasma ACTH levels in adults with Asperger syndrome.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this preliminary study was to characterize the levels of plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol in adult patients with Asperger syndrome (AS).

METHODS

Twenty medication-free individuals with high-functioning AS were recruited from a clinic specialized in autism spectrum disorders. Ten age-matched healthy persons (hospital staff or students) with no neuropsychiatric disorders served as controls. Blood samples for the assessment were collected at 8:00 a.m.

RESULTS

The patients with AS had significantly higher plasma-ACTH values than did the healthy controls. Plasma-cortisol levels were similar in both groups.

CONCLUSION

Increased plasma-ACTH levels are associated with AS. Future studies are needed to clarify whether this finding is a biological consequence of chronic anxiety and elevated stress, or a sign of facilitated response to an acute novel stressor.