Functional Neurological Disorder and Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Complex and Potentially Significant Relationship.

Area of Science:

• Neuropsychiatry
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Functional neurological disorder (FND) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are complex neuropsychiatric conditions often overlooked and stigmatized.
• Increasing recognition of potential overlap between FND and ASD in clinical practice and research.
• Focus on shared symptoms in sensory, motor, and psychiatric domains between FND and ASD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential clinical and mechanistic overlap between FND and ASD.
• To review existing literature on shared symptoms and underlying mechanisms.
• To highlight the need for further investigation into the FND-ASD connection.

Main Methods:

• Narrative analysis of scientific literature.
• Searches conducted across PubMed, CINAHL, MEDLINE, and ScienceDirect databases (up to June 2024).
• Inclusion of all relevant articles exploring FND-ASD connections, focusing on findings and hypotheses due to limited data.

Main Results:

• Evidence suggests FND and ASD co-occur more often than previously thought, with overlapping clinical presentations and pathophysiology.
• Theoretical models like the Bayesian brain theory and tripartite model of autism offer insights into the FND-ASD intersection.
• Current evidence is largely speculative, emphasizing the need for hypothesis-driven research.

Conclusions:

• ASD and FND are heterogeneous conditions that can co-occur, sharing symptomatology and potentially underlying mechanisms.
• This review highlights the need for further research to understand the FND-ASD links.
• Improved understanding aims to enhance clinical recognition and develop targeted interventions for affected individuals.