Etiology and Pathophysiology - Childhood Disorders: The Autism Spectrum Disorders

Etiology and Pathophysiology

Currently, the precise etiology and pathogenesis of ASDs are unknown. Strong evidence for genetic bases for the disorders, along with the advent of sophisticated genetic techniques, has led to a shift toward looking for the genetic underpinnings in the disorder. Most contemporary etiological theories strongly sug-gest a genetic or other early neurodevelopmental disruption with overt clinical manifestations potentially modified by social or environmental experiences.