Signs and symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder and early diagnosis as a benefit in the prognosis of pediatric patients: A systematic review

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the scientific production on autism spectrum disorder (ASD), seeking to relate the importance of describing the signs and symptoms that permeate ASD with the early diagnosis of pediatric patients and their better prognosis. Methodology:  Systematic review, using the Pubmed and VHL database, with the descriptors: autism, diagnosis, signs and symptoms, prognosis, from 2019 to 2023. A total of 381 articles were identified and, after applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 21 studies were selected for analysis. Results: Due to its heterogeneous nature, ASD presents with a wide variety of clinical symptoms and environmental and genetic risk factors. Among the signs and symptoms could be listed: delays in expressive language, communication, deficits in social interaction, and restricted and repetitive behaviors added to interests or activities that cause clinical harm. Within the material analyzed, the studies highlighted the possibility of an early diagnosis based on specific questionnaires, eye monitoring, MRI patterns and behavioral patterns; in addition to the risk factors most related to ASD. Conclusion: Early recognition of the signs and symptoms that permeate autism spectrum disorder is essential to ensure a better long-term prognosis for these autistic children.