Conceptual evolution of autism spectrum disorder according to diagnostic classifiers

Authors

Keywords:

trastornos del espectro autista; clasificadores diagnósticos; pautas diagnósticas

Abstract

Introduction: The first autistic profile was described by John Langdon Down in 1887, based on the observation of delayed cognitive development and autistic characteristics in children. Since then, conceptualizations have been established, leading to a definition currently based on a broad spectrum of the disorder.
Objective: To review the different classifications according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders and to understand the breadth of the diagnosis currently available.
Methods:
A narrative literature review was conducted from January to July 2023, through a search of bibliographic databases such as PubMed, Lilacs, Google Scholar, and Cumed. Descriptors in English and Spanish were used.
Result:
Arguments are presented on the scientific basis found in the literature, allowing for an interpretation and analysis of the key elements related to the diagnosis and the criteria established according to the evolution of the manual, which facilitated understanding why the disorder is currently more prevalent.
Conclusions: Over the years, attention has focused on the same affected areas and the origins of the main manifestations; however, the nomenclature of the disorder has changed, and the criteria have been relaxed to accommodate a greater number of cases with autism spectrum disorders. Similarly, the latest classifier takes into account additional criteria that offer the possibility of more integrative care for each patient.

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Author Biographies

Iris Dany Carmenate Rodríguez, José Martí Pérez Provincial Teaching Pediatric Hospital, Sancti Spíritus, Cuba

Specialist in MGI and Second Degree in Child Psychiatry. Master's Degree in Comprehensive Women's Care. Head of the Provincial Child Psychiatry Group. Assistant Professor and Researcher

Sorahy Zoila Santander García, Celia Sánchez Manduley Polyclinic, Trinidad, Sancti Spíritus, Cuba

Specialists in Comprehensive General Medicine and Child Psychiatry. Assistant Professor      

Arnel Antonio Rodríguez Cordero, Ramón Balboa Monzón University Polyclinic, Guayos, Cabaiguán, Sancti Spíritus, Cuba

Specialists in Comprehensive General Medicine and Child Psychiatry. Assistant Professor

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Published

2025-10-15

How to Cite

1.
Carmenate Rodríguez ID, Santander García SZ, Rodríguez Cordero AA. Conceptual evolution of autism spectrum disorder according to diagnostic classifiers. Acta Méd Centro [Internet]. 2025 Oct. 15 [cited 2025 Oct. 19];19(1):e2231. Available from: https://revactamedicacentro.sld.cu/index.php/amc/article/view/2231

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Section

Review Articles