In autism, gene findings may help explain biology, guide drug discovery

(Medical Xpress) -- Autism and related disorders that profoundly affect behavior and development are diagnosed more often today than ever before.

Behaviors and the 12-symptom checklist for autism

True or False? All people who have behaviors of stimming (i.e. hand flapping), echoing, spinning and perseveration (i.e. lining up objects, subject fascination) are in the autism spectrum. The answer is false. These characteristics are byproducts of autism.

Changing The Autism Spectrum

CARBONDALE -- Local autism experts are applauding the decision to change what classifies as autism. The stricter criteria for diagnosing the disorder will likely mean fewer people are considered autistic.

In Autism, Gene Findings May Help Explain Biology and Guide Drug Discovery

UCSF gene hunter Lauren Weiss is homing in on a network of genes – linked to a protein suspect identified earlier – that may hold clues to autism and lead to new ways to identify those at risk and new ideas about prevention and treatment.

Autism Doctors Move Step Closer to Overhauling Diagnosis Rules

The American Psychiatric Association is moving a step closer to overhauling the criteria for diagnosing autism after two just-completed field studies found the new definition won’t exclude patients who need treatment.