Background and Aims: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are prevalent neurodevelopmental conditions characterized by cognitive, behavioral, and social impairments. Both disorders may involve disturbances in catecholamine regulation and trace element homeostasis. This study evaluated serum norepinephrine levels and selected trace elements (zinc, iron, magnesium, and copper) in children with ASD or ADHD compared with healthy controls in Thi-Qar Governorate, Iraq.
Methods: A case-control study was conducted between January 2024 and February 2025 and included 170 children aged 3 to 13 years: 55 with ASD, 60 with ADHD, and 55 healthy controls. Blood samples were obtained at the Autism Center in Thi-Qar Governorate and Shatra General Hospital under specialist supervision, following standard collection protocols. Serum norepinephrine and mineral concentrations were analyzed using validated biochemical methods.
Results: Children with ASD and ADHD demonstrated significantly elevated norepinephrine levels compared with controls (P <0.05). Concentrations of zinc, iron, and magnesium were significantly reduced (P <0.05), whereas copper levels were markedly increased in both clinical groups relative to healthy participants.
Conclusion: The findings indicate notable neurochemical and mineral alterations in children with ASD and ADHD. These results underscore the potential diagnostic value of norepinephrine and trace elements as biochemical markers and suggest the need for targeted nutritional and therapeutic interventions.