Neuroimages in Autism

Abstract

This chapter summarizes findings of the morphological and functional brain changes in autistic spectrum disorders (ASD), demonstrated by a growing body of researches that employs diverse neuroimaging methods. We discuss major anatomical findings from studies in ASD utilizing structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). We also explore findings from functional MRI (fMRI) studies, including task–related activation studies and functional connectivity. Regional changes in brain metabolism are examined using magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) and nuclear medicine techniques, including positron emission tomography (PET) and single–photon emission tomography (SPECT). Finally, we highlight directions for continued research in neuroimaging of ASD at a network level using graph theoretical approaches.