Autism spectrum disorder

James C. Harris, Joseph T. Coyle

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a broad group 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, neurochemistry, and animal models are leading to better understanding of the neurobiology. The diagnostic criteria in DSM-5 TR designate a broad spectrum with elimination of earlier subtypes. Early initiation of psychosocial treatments and careful psychopharmacological management of cooccurring diagnoses are required for the best behavioral outcomes.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationNeurobiology of Brain Disorders
Subtitle of host publicationBiological Basis of Neurological and Psychiatric Disorders, Second Edition
PublisherElsevier
Pages69-88
Number of pages20
ISBN (Electronic)9780323856546
ISBN (Print)9780323898256
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 1 2022

Keywords

  • Autism spectrum disorder
  • DSM-5 TR
  • Leo Kanner
  • Neurobiology
  • Neuroimaging
  • Neuropathology
  • Oxytocin
  • Proton spectroscopy

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Neuroscience

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