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Updated: Oct 6, 2026

Probing the Brain in Autism Using fMRI and Diffusion Tensor Imaging
12:21

Probing the Brain in Autism Using fMRI and Diffusion Tensor Imaging

Published on: September 12, 2011

[Neurological aspects of infantile autism]

G Lelord, B Garreau, C Barthelemy

    L'Encephale
    |March 1, 1986
    PubMed

    Insights

    Childhood autism may stem from neurological issues, despite not being classified as such. Early autism symptoms resemble brain dysfunction, suggesting a link to the central dopaminergic system.

    Area of Science:

    • Neurology
    • Developmental Pediatrics
    • Neuroscience

    Context:

    • Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is often viewed behaviorally, but neurological underpinnings are increasingly recognized.
    • Antecedent injuries (prenatal, perinatal, postnatal) are frequently observed in individuals with autism.
    • Early developmental symptoms in autism mirror signs of dysfunction in specific brain regions.

    Purpose:

    • To explore the potential neurological basis of childhood autism.
    • To investigate the relationship between early autism symptoms and brain structure/system dysfunction.
    • To propose the development of a specialized field of infant and child behavioral neurology.

    Summary:

    • Childhood autism, while not typically classified as a neurological disease, presents with early developmental symptoms suggestive of dysfunction in the frontal, temporal, striatal, and brainstem areas.
    • These brain regions are intricately linked with the central dopaminergic system, which may be altered in autistic children.
    • The observed neurological parallels support the hypothesis that autism may have a significant neurological component.

    Impact:

    • Highlights the need to consider neurological factors in autism diagnosis and intervention.
    • Suggests potential therapeutic targets within the central dopaminergic system.
    • Advocates for the establishment of a dedicated field of behavioral neurology for infants and children to address complex neurodevelopmental conditions.

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