Gastrointestinal disorders and autism

Autism is a condition characterized by impairment of social interaction and of verbal and non-verbal communication, poor social skills, a limited range of interests, and repetitive behaviors. Patients affected by autism may also present several medical diseases. Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders are among the medical pathologies associated with autism. GI symptoms occurrence in autism ranges from 9% to 70% or higher. Various hypotheses have been formulated on the etiopathogenetic role played by the interaction between the gut and the brain in causing autistic behaviors. At present, patients with autism may receive the same diagnostic workup and guidelines for GI symptoms as pediatric patients without autism; moreover it is advisable to use only treatments privileging evidence-based practices with a solid scientific foundation.