Autism Subtypes Split by Diagnosis Age

Updated: 2026.01.05 24D ago 2 sources
An international Nature study of 45,000 autistic people reports those diagnosed in early childhood have different genetic profiles than those diagnosed later. This indicates ‘autism’ is an umbrella that covers multiple biological conditions along a gradient, not a single disorder. It challenges one‑cause explanations and suggests tailored screening and interventions by subtype and timing. — It reframes autism policy, research funding, and causal debates (e.g., vaccines, medications) toward defined subtypes and better measurement instead of monolithic claims.

Sources

Update on diagnostic classification in autism - PMC
2026.01.05 87% relevant
This review focuses on how diagnostic boundaries and constructs have changed (DSM‑5 collapsing prior categories into ASD), which is the same diagnostic heterogeneity that underpins the existing idea that different autism subtypes and timing of diagnosis matter; the article’s emphasis on merging categories and the need for prospective comparison connects directly to the claim that diagnosis age and taxonomy alter measured subgroups.
Autism Should Not Be Seen As Single Condition With One Cause, Say Scientists
BeauHD 2025.10.03 100% relevant
Dr Varun Warrier (Cambridge) and colleagues’ Nature paper finding distinct genetic signatures for early vs late autism diagnoses.
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