Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

What is the most common form of inherited intellectual disability associated with autism?

1. Marfan's syndrome

2. Down syndrome

3. Turner's syndrome

4. Fragile X disorder

The correct answer is: Fragile X disorder

Fragile X disorder is recognized as the most common form of inherited intellectual disability linked to autism. This genetic condition results from a mutation in the FMR1 gene on the X chromosome, which affects neurological development and is associated with various cognitive and behavioral challenges, including those seen in autism spectrum disorders. Individuals with Fragile X syndrome often exhibit features such as social anxiety, hyperactivity, and challenges in communication, which overlap with the core behaviors of autism. Moreover, there is a significant prevalence of autism spectrum disorder among individuals with Fragile X syndrome, making this disorder particularly relevant in discussions of both intellectual disability and autism. In contrast, Marfan's syndrome primarily affects connective tissue and is not directly related to intellectual disability or autism. Down syndrome, while associated with some cognitive delays, is not the most common genetic condition related to autism. Turner's syndrome typically affects females and is characterized by various physical features and some learning disabilities, but it also does not carry the same association with autism as Fragile X disorder does. Understanding these distinctions highlights the importance of recognizing the genetic factors that can influence both cognitive function and the presence of autism, with Fragile X disorder being a key example.