Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex condition that has extreme heterogeneity, which makes it extremely challenging from a diagnostic and etiological point of view. To add to the complexity, ASD typically has co-morbidity and overlap with other conditions outlined in this book, including epilepsy, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and others. This book also examines monocyte cytokine profiles and catecholamines in ASD, genetic studies of autism, treatments, and controversial issues.

This Research Topic has the aim to fill the gap of the many unresolved scientific issues on Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) that are still in need of investigation, Targeted treatments based on the understanding of the underlying pathogenic mechanisms of disease are still lacking. Further research is awaited and should be obtained through a significant effort on experimental treatment trials and neuroscience research. This Topic is divided in two main sections, one covering clinical issues and another on basic neurosciences of Autism Spectrum Disorders. A more detailed description of the contents of the articles is provided in the editorial at the beginning of the issue.

This Research Topic covers the pathogenetic processes in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) that underpin the translation of genetic vulnerability to clinically significant symptoms. Available research data in ASD suggests that it is a neural connectivity disorder and that the social communication and related neurobehavioural symptoms result from reduced synchronization between key "social brain" regions. These interconnected neural systems can be understood through the relationship between functionally relevant anatomic areas and neurochemical pathways, the programming of which are genetically modulated during neurodevelopment and mediated through a range of epigenetic and environmental modulators. Elucidating the underlying molecular mechanisms can provide an invaluable window for understanding the neural wiring that regulates higher brain functions and consequent clinical phenotypes. In keeping with the multi modal and diverse origins of ASD, this Research Topic explores the genetic underpinnings and environmental modulation in the aetiology; neural substrates, biomarkers and endophenotypes that underlie clinical characteristics; as well as neurochemical pathways and pathophysiological mechanisms that pave the way for therapeutic interventions. Furthermore, since genetically mediated deficits and consequent functional impairments involve activity-dependent synapse development that depends on postnatal learning and experience, the trajectory towards the final clinical expression could be modulated by early interventions that exploit the neuronal maturation and brain plasticity. However, identifying these diverse pathogenetic processes and tailoring interventions would require subtyping ASD into homogeneous subgroups. In this regard, this topic covers the current state of evidence in the literature through topic reviews as well as ongoing original work that provides tangible hypotheses and directions for future research.

Accurate and exhaustive, this book provides a wide overview of the current knowledge on phenotypes, mechanisms and treatment of autism spectrum disorders. It covers topics on diagnostic issues, comorbid conditions and therapeutic strategies along with a detailed discussion on the actual understanding of the pathophysiology of autism disorders. More specifically, this book reviews in detail the current knowledge on the comorbidity between mental and medical disorders, describes abnormal cognitive and social development and gives a thorough overview on genetic as well as brain imaging abnormalities observed in autism spectrum disorders. In addition, the current literature on environmental risk factors which may provide an explanation for the increased prevalence of autism is being described. The last chapter gives an extensive review of early detection and early therapeutic interventions encompassing psycho-social and pharmacological strategies. Each chapter is easy to read and gives the reader access to the most important information on each topic covered. This book provides innovative reading material for medical students, psychologists, researchers and clinicians who need accurate information on the best available diagnostic and therapeutic strategies as well as on up-to-date research data.

This book examines the diagnostic overlap and frequent confusion between the newly named DSM-5 diagnostic categories of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), which include autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and trauma and stressor related disorders (TSRDs). These conditions are similar in that a) children with developmental disorders are particularly vulnerable to traumatic events and b) all have pervasive effects on the brain and development. Chapters provide a wealth of effective clinical, family, and school-based interventions, developed from established studies and important new findings. In addition, chapters use illustrative case studies to survey assessment challenges in today’s healthcare climate and consider alternative routes for improving correct diagnoses, identifying appropriate interventions, and referring proper targeted, evidence-based treatment and services. The book concludes with the editors’ recommendations for needs-based service access, including a more widespread use and acceptance of the Research Domain Criteria (RDoC) and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) framework. Topics featured in this book include: The neurobiological contributors to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs) and its diagnosis in children with a history of trauma. Interventions for trauma and stressor-related disorders in preschool-aged children. Reactive attachment disorder (RAD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis and care in a cultural context. Special population consideration in ASD identification and treatment. Challenges associated with the transition to adulthood. Trauma and neurodevelopmental disorders from a public health perspective. Trauma, Autism, and Neurodevelopmental Disorders is a must-have resource for researchers, clinicians and related professionals, and graduate students in developmental psychology, child and adolescent psychiatry, public health, social work, pediatrics, and special education.