ABSTRACT
Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impaired social functioning, impaired communication, and restricted and repetitive behaviors. Although in the first two decades following its initial description by Kanner there was relatively little awareness regarding the neurobiological aspects of the disorder, it is now clear that autism is associated with a number of features that suggest abnormal nervous system functioning and that implicate genetic factors. Over the past two decades interest in these aspects of the condition has increased markedly, and there is a consensus on the importance of these factors in syndrome pathogenesis (Rutter, 2000).
