Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a broad grouping of neurodevelopmental disorders that result in deficits in social communication and social interaction and in restricted repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, and activities. ASD begins prenatally and is associated with morphological abnormalities and changes in functioning in the developing brain. The lack of social engagement is perplexing and demoralizing to family members who seek to make meaningful contact with their children. Advances in genetics, neuroimaging, neuropathology, and neurochemistry are leading to better understanding of the neurobiology. The diagnostic criteria have been revised in DSM-5 to designate a broad spectrum with elimination of earlier subtypes. Early initiation of psychosocial treatments and careful psychopharmacological management of co-occurring diagnoses are required for the best behavioral outcomes.