DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA FOR AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER (ASD): COMMUNICATION DEFICITS AND RESTRICTIVE PATTERNS

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex and multifactorial neurodevelopmental condition characterized by persistent deficits in communication and social interaction, as well as restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. This study consisted of a narrative literature review aimed at synthesizing contemporary scientific evidence on the diagnostic criteria for ASD, with a focus on communication deficits and restrictive patterns, using the PubMed database. Current criteria (DSM-5 and ICD-11) converge into two main domains, highlighting, in communication, the lack of socioemotional reciprocity and impairment in joint attention. In the behavioral domain, motor stereotypies, insistence on inflexible routines, and sensory hyper- or hyporeactivity are notable. Diagnosis, which remains essentially clinical despite advances in neurobiological and genetic research, relies on gold-standard tools such as ADOS-2 and ADI-R. It is concluded that early detection and individualized, multidisciplinary management, including interventions such as ABA, ESDM, JASPER, and the use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), are crucial to promote neuroplasticity, improve functional prognosis, and enhance the quality of life of individuals with ASD.