All about autism spectrum disorder: Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment

Medicover Genetics Editorial Team|

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Scientifically checked

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological developmental disorder that affects brain development and function. This affects how people learn, behave, communicate and interact with others, leading to challenges at home, school or work. A wide variety of symptoms and accompanying medical conditions are associated with ASD.

Although the exact causes are not fully understood, up to a quarter of ASD cases have a genetic cause that can be identified by genetic testing methods, and knowing the genetic cause can be advantageous for planning treatment or management options.

You can learn more about ASD and genetic testing for this and other paediatric developmental disorders .

Topics covered in this infographic:

  • What is autism spectrum disorder (ASD)?
  • When does ASD start?
  • Symptoms of ASD
  • Causes of ASD
  • Diagnosis
  • Risk factors
  • Outlook and treatment
  • Raising awareness of ASD

Last updated: 14.09.2026

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