Neurobiological Markers for the Early Stages of Autism Spectrum Disorders

Abstract

This article presents a review of current studies addressing the early signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Autism spectrum disorder is a group of developmental impairments whose main signs are qualitative impairments to communication and social interactions. However, studies in recent years indicate that the earliest specific signs of the condition are impairments to the switching of attention and orientation to novel stimuli, with impairments to the processing of stimuli to which cells in the magnocellular visual pathway are sensitive, as well as deficient executive control. This article assesses the role of impaired attention in forming the clinical picture of social impairment in autism. Deficient development of executive control may be an early indicator of hyperactivity symptoms.