Anorexia nervosa and comorbid autism spectrum disorders

Purpose of review Traits of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are overrepresented among individuals with anorexia nervosa (AN) and may also moderate the behavioral manifestation of AN. This review aims to provide an overview of AN and comorbid ASD. Recent findings Elevated ASD traits do not seem to precede AN among some individuals but are rather related to the illness stage. However, studies have suggested that there are ASD-specific mechanisms for developing AN in a subgroup of individuals with AN. Pronounced traits of ASD and diagnosed ASD are associated with illness prolongation and poorer outcomes in AN, and individuals with AN and elevated ASD traits may benefit less from many of the current treatments. Studies do not support a specific genetic relationship between ASD and AN. Summary Recent research encourages the improved recognition of elevated ASD traits in individuals with AN and provides grounds for developing tailored treatments for those with this comorbidity.