Etiology of autism

Abstract

The Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurobiological based disorder with a high percentage of heritability and a wide list of possible etiologies that presents very heterogeneous changes in neuronal architecture, connectivity and synaptogenesis with characteristic clinical manifestations whose origin points to environmental, immunological, genetic and other causes, without hav-ing been confirmed specific biomarkers. Diagnosis continues to be based on typical features including repetitive behaviors and impaired communication and social interaction. Their genetic and non-genetic risk factors are reviewed to advance knowledge about the pathological processes that may be related to their origin.