Sex/gender differences in children with autism spectrum disorder: A brief overview on epidemiology, symptom profile, and neuroanatomy

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a heterogeneous group of neurodevelopmental conditions whose shared core features are impairments in social interaction and communication as well as restricted patterns of behavior, interests, and activities. The significant and consistent male preponderance in ASD prevalence has historically affected the scientific knowledge of autism in females as regards, inter alia, the clinical presentation, the genetic architecture, and the structural brain underpinnings. Indeed, females with ASD are under-investigated as samples recruited for clinical research typically reflect the strong male bias of the disorder. In the last years, the study of the various aspects of sex/gender (s/g) differences in ASD is gaining increased clinical and research interest resulting in a growing number of investigations on this topic. Here, I review and discuss evidence emerged from epidemiological, clinical, and neuroimaging studies in the last decade focusing on s/g differences in children with ASD. These studies are the prerequisites for the development of assessment and treatment practices which take into consideration s/g differences in ASD. Ultimately, a better understanding of s/g differences aims at improving healthcare for both ASD males and females.

Automated summary

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are a diverse group of neurodevelopmental conditions characterized by social interaction and communication impairments, as well as restricted patterns of behavior, interests, and activities. Historically, the higher prevalence of ASD in males has led to a lack of research on females with autism, including their clinical presentation, genetic architecture, and brain structure. However, in recent years, there has been an increasing interest in studying sex/gender differences in ASD, resulting in a growing number of investigations. These studies serve as the foundation for developing assessment and treatment practices that consider sex/gender differences in ASD, with the ultimate aim of improving healthcare for both males and females with ASD.