New research into risk factors for autism suggests that in addition to biological sex (the disorder is more common in men), differences in brain structure may also be a predictor, regardless of biological sex. The findings suggest that having brain features commonly found in males is associated with a higher likelihood of having an autism spectrum disorder.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) vs autism
The term ASD was coined to highlight the fact that two patients, diagnosed with autism, can be completely different and yet meet the diagnostic criteria necessary to diagnose the condition. The definition of ASD refers to a complex disorder of brain development that causes varying degrees of impairment in social interaction, communication and behaviour. Some patients with ASD require little help with everyday activities, while others are completely dependent on this help. The spectrum of autism is therefore very broad.
Differences in the female and male brain
Previous studies have shown that the statistical female brain differs from the analogous male brain. For example, the male brain has a statistically larger volume.
Study
Researchers at the Goethe University of Frankfurt decided to include another statistical difference in the brains of both sexes - the thickness of the cerebral cortex - in their study. A group of 98 adults (49 females, 49 males) with a diagnosis of high-functioning autism was included in the study and compared to a control group of 98 adults without ASD (age range: 18 - 42 years). The thickness of the cerebral cortex was measured using magnetic resonance imaging and the diagnosis of ASD was confirmed according to ICD-10 standards.
Conclusions of the study
A thinner cerebral cortex is likely to be associated with a higher risk of autism. Further research in this direction is needed. The study refers only to individuals with high-functioning autism.