The Relationship Between Autism Spectrum Disorder and Schizophrenia

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Schizophrenia are complex disorders that may require a different approach to fully understand the etiology for both. These disorders and expensive to treat, can be difficult to manage and can impact an individual's ability to successfully engage in daily function. While ASD and schizophrenia are identified as separate clinical entities, a connection between symptomology is recognized. Investigating the genetic components, disruptions in neural connectivity, abnormal brain structures as well as interruptions in the endocrine and limbic systems may suggest a possible connection between these disorders. Additionally, reviewing previous research centered on the biology of each disorder and how therapeutic interventions can improve based on the possible biological overlap may help to better understand how ASD and schizophrenia may be connected and possibly categorized.