Investigating the Transdiagnostic Factors for Anorexia Nervosa and Autism Spectrum Disorders in Intellectually High-Functioning Women - a Brief Literature Review

Abstract

Recently, there has been a growing interest in the existence of transdiagnostic factors that may help explain the etiology and maintenance mechanisms of mental disorders. Eating disorders (EDs) are multifactorial conditions involving dysfunctional thoughts, behaviors, and emotions related to body image and eating. Their chronic nature and frequent relapses have prompted efforts to identify variables contributing to their development and persistence. In the 20th century, it was noted that EDs may be associated with the autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The literature continues to debate whether EDs may be a manifestation of ASD. This article presents a rapid review of studies investigating behavioral and neural links between EDs and ASD, including systematic reviews. Findings indicate the presence of ASD-like traits among females with EDs, particularly anorexia nervosa (AN). Shared characteristics include social functioning impairments, executive dysfunction, and stereotypical behaviors. Moreover, both structural and functional brain alterations have been identified in individuals with EDs and ASD, particularly in regions associated with these shared deficits. These overlaps suggest possible common underlying mechanisms, which may have implications for diagnosis and treatment. The findings emphasize the importance of integrating neurodevelopmental perspectives into the understanding of EDs, with the potential to engage more effective therapeutic interventions.