Home / Science / Autism's Hidden Faces: Four New Subtypes Discovered
Autism's Hidden Faces: Four New Subtypes Discovered
26 Dec
Summary
- Researchers identified four distinct autism subtypes based on behavior and genetics.
- These subtypes suggest autism is not a single condition but multiple distinct forms.
- Discoveries may lead to more accurate diagnoses and personalized treatments.
Recent scientific breakthroughs are redefining our understanding of autism, revealing evidence for four distinct subtypes. These categories are differentiated by unique behavioral constellations and genetic traits, challenging the long-held view of autism as a single, broad spectrum. This new framework suggests that autism encompasses multiple distinct conditions, each with its own developmental trajectory and biological underpinnings. The findings stem from extensive analysis of data from thousands of families who volunteered their medical information for research.
The research, published in Nature Genetics, categorizes individuals into groups such as 'broadly affected,' 'mixed autism with developmental delay,' 'moderate challenges,' and 'social and/or behavioral.' This nuanced approach acknowledges that genetic mutations may activate at different life stages, influencing how autism manifests. The discoveries offer hope for more precise diagnoses and personalized interventions, moving away from a one-size-fits-all approach to understanding and supporting autistic individuals.
