Kortyzol u osób z zaburzeniami ze spektrum autyzmu - przegląd piśmiennictwa

Abstract

Cortisol is a hormone crucial for homeostasis of the human organism. Many researchers proved the role of cortisol and its normal release rhythm in healthy individuals. It led to further investigations of the abnormalities in cortisol levels in those affected by various disorders , especially with neuropsychiatric symptoms. Autism spectrum disorder is one of these conditions which have been intensively researched due to its core and secondary symptoms. We conducted a systematic review of articles in PubMed, including papers that met the search criteria “autism” and “cortisol”. After initial selection of relevant papers, we analyzed data from 56 articles. We divided data into subcategories of studies concerning cortisol diurnal profile, basal cortisol levels, Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR) and cortisol levels in reaction to certain stimuli. Data was unequivocal, however, abnormal diurnal profile, basal level, CAR or stressor response were found in many research groups. It led to suspicion that the abnormalities of cortisol release are a widely-spread phenomenon among individuals with autism spectrum disorder. Very limited data from therapeutic interventions indicated more clinical than biological response. This systematic review should be a drive to action for further randomized clinical trial on larger, homogenous group of patients to obtain more thorough insight into the role of cortisol in autism spectrum disorder