Researchers using artificial intelligence to analyze hundreds of brain scans have identified clear brain differences between boys and girls with autism, patterns not seen in typically developing children. The findings help explain why autism symptoms often appear differently by sex and may lead to a more accurate diagnosis for girls.

Autism has historically been defined and studied mainly in boys, contributing to underdiagnosis in girls, who often show fewer obvious repetitive behaviors and may mask symptoms. Because early intervention is most effective in early childhood, improving sex-informed diagnostic methods could reduce delays in care and significantly improve outcomes. (more…)