A-134 Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Presentation in Females

Abstract

Abstract Objective: The review aims to analyze the differences in the ASD presentation in females to identify current gaps in the literature and suggest future research directions. Data Selection: Keywords used in this search were ASD, females, restrictive/repetitive interest, female autism phenotype. Databases used included Sciencedirect, Medline, PsycARTICLES, Psychology and Behavioral Sciences, and PsychINFO. The search returned 73, 931 studies; 73,905 were removed for not meeting inclusion criteria. Inclusion criteria consisted of peer-reviewed articles published in English between 2012–2022 that analyzed the autistic female phenotype as well as gender differences in the female autistic presentation. The final analysis consisted of 26 studies. Data Synthesis: Findings of 24 studies concluded that amongst autistic females, there are variations in the symptomatology presentation that are not fully understood. Significant differences were found in brain structures, anterior insula functioning, symptom recognition, diagnosis age, and access to health care. Key themes for females included camouflage effect, genetic and hormonal mechanisms, diagnostic assessment tools, significant differences in communication, socialization, and the presentation of restrictive and repetitive behaviors, as well as the female autism phenotype. Findings of 1 study revealed no significant differences in the prevalence of suicidal ideation between genders. The twenty-six-study found no significant gender differences in response to treatment. Conclusion: This review points out that ASD presentation in females can be better recognized through the understanding and expansion of the autistic female phenotype. Limitations include the lack of research comparing ASD with typically developing females. Future research on the autistic female phenotype is needed.