Comparative Cranial Morphology in Autism Spectrum Disorder: An Evolutionary and Anthropometric Perspective from India

Rahul Hajare*

Background: Atypical early brain growth in ASD may influence cranial morphometry; however, population-specific data remain limited. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition with diverse phenotypic manifestations. Previous studies have reported subtle variations in cranial morphology among individuals with ASD, though findings are heterogeneous and often population-specific. This study aims to comparatively assess head regions and cranial morphology in Indian children with ASD and age-matched neurotypical controls.

Materials and methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted on 120 Indian children (60 with ASD, 60 neurotypical) aged 3–12 years. Cranial measurements were obtained using standardized anthropometric techniques, including head circumference, cranial length, breadth, height, and cranial index. Data were analyzed for group differences, sex-based variations, and correlations with age.

Results: Children with ASD showed slightly higher mean head circumference (51.2 ± 3.5 cm) compared to controls (49.8 ± 3.2 cm), though this difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.07). No significant differences were observed in cranial length, breadth, or height. Cranial index values indicated mesocephalic predominance in both groups. Minor variations in frontal and parietal region measurements were observed but did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusion: This study demonstrates that cranial morphology in Indian children with ASD is largely comparable to neurotypical peers, with minor variations in head circumference and regional measurements. Population-specific normative data are essential for interpreting cranial characteristics in neurodevelopmental research.

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Published on: Feb 19, 2026 Pages: 11-13

Full Text PDF Full Text HTML DOI: 10.17352/apt.000068
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