Different Forms of Autism May Exist, Not Just Varying Severities, Genetic Study Reveals
When someone is diagnosed with autism after age 6—the average age for diagnosis these days—they're often told they have a "milder" version compared to those identified as toddlers. But a new genetic study is flipping that script, suggesting that autism isn't just a sliding scale of severity. Instead, there might be entirely different forms of the condition, each with its own genetic blueprint.
Researchers from a large-scale genetic analysis, published recently, dove deep into the DNA of thousands of people on the autism spectrum. What they found reinforces what many in the autism community have long suspected: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is far more complex than a single condition with varying intensities. There's no one-size-fits-all cause, and the differences between early and late diagnoses might stem from distinct genetic pathways rather than just how "severe" the traits appear.
Unpacking the Science Behind the Spectrum
Autism affects how people communicate, interact socially, and process the world around them. For years, it's been viewed as a spectrum, with early-diagnosed kids often showing more pronounced challenges in language, behavior, or sensory processing. Those diagnosed later, perhaps in school or adulthood, might mask their traits better or present with subtler signs like intense interests or social awkwardness.
But this study, drawing on genomic data from diverse populations, identified clusters of genetic variations that don't align neatly with age of diagnosis. Some groups shared rare mutations linked to early-onset autism, while others had common variants that might only surface later. It's like discovering that what we called "autism" could actually be several related but separate conditions under one umbrella.
"This isn't about downplaying anyone's experience," one of the lead researchers explained in the original reporting. "It's about recognizing the diversity at a biological level, which could lead to more targeted support and therapies."
What This Means for Families and Diagnosis
For parents navigating a child's potential diagnosis, or adults uncovering their own neurodiversity, this research offers hope and a call for nuance. Late diagnoses aren't just "mild" cases—they might represent a different genetic reality altogether. This could influence everything from screening tools to personalized interventions, moving away from a one-size-fits-all approach.
Of course, genetics is just one piece of the puzzle. Environment, early intervention, and individual resilience play huge roles too. But by highlighting these potential subtypes, the study underscores the need for broader genetic testing and a more flexible diagnostic framework.
As we look ahead, experts predict this could spark further research into tailored treatments—perhaps gene therapies for specific variants or therapies that address unique neurological wiring. For now, it's a reminder that autism's story is as varied as the people living it.
*This article is based on reporting from NBC News. For the full study details and expert quotes, read the original here."