A new study challenges the assumption that people diagnosed with autism after age 6 have a “milder” form of the condition. Researchers found that those diagnosed in late childhood or adolescence actually have a different genetic profile, similar to depression, ADHD, and PTSD, than early childhood autism. This suggests that autism is not a single condition but an umbrella term for various conditions with distinct features. The study highlights the importance of assessing autistic individuals across the lifespan to ensure they receive proper support and diagnosis.
Source: https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/autism-spectrum-disorder-genetic-analysis-multiple-forms-age-diagnosis-rcna234741