Neurobiological Concomitants of Autism as Informers of Clinical Practice: a Status Review

Abstract Objectives Although a great deal of research is conducted into the neurobiological correlates autism, there has been no recent overview findings from this in terms how they translate to clinical practice. To provide an literature fields head size, brain volume, region, connectivity between regions, and synaptic function, as apply with view informing Methods Major empirical review papers on these topics last 30 years were identified via search PubMed, Google Scholar, PsychInfo, using descriptors ‘autism’, ‘head size’, ‘brain volume’, region’, ‘connectivity regions’, ‘synaptic function’. distil key relevant practice, both authors blind reviews, producing set ‘key’ for purpose. Results Each field produced number major findings, which then described discussed, translated table ‘Findings’, ‘Diagnostic suggestions’ (for clinician’s protocols), ‘Clinical actions’ (suggestions interactions carers autistic children adults). Conclusions The stability within each varies, some clear others that are yet be consistently verified. Despite this, specific implications diagnosis treatment (particularly clinician-carer interactions) described.