A scientific study has identified that autism can be divided into two subtypes based on the intensity of brain connections. This confirms that not all cases are the same, opening the door to more accurate diagnoses and personalized treatments. For the public, this distinction will allow therapies to be tailored to each individual, reducing costs and increasing effectiveness.
Neuroimaging technology enables mapping of the two autism subtypes 🧠
Using functional magnetic resonance imaging, researchers analyzed connectivity between brain regions in people with autism. They identified a subtype with hyperconnectivity, where signals travel excessively, and another with hypoconnectivity, where neural pathways are weak. This technical distinction allows for the development of AI-assisted diagnostic tools that classify each patient in minutes, facilitating targeted therapies for their specific profile.
Autism: now with two flavors to choose from (but no menu) 🍦
Finally, science gives us a reason not to generalize. Now, when someone says all autistic people are the same, we can respond with a resounding false: there are two types. That said, don't expect to choose between them like ice cream flavors. But at least, therapists will stop applying the same patch to everyone, and patients can say: give me the weak route therapy, please.