Influence of autistic traits in the treatment of anorexia nervosa in the female population: a systematic review

Identifier:  TFG:9924

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/TFG9924

Authors:  Antonio Manrique, Deborah de

Abstract:
Anorexia nervosa (AN) has a high comorbidity with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), especially in women. This systematic review of 16 studies shows that autistic traits are associated with greater clinical severity, longer hospital stays, and more difficult psychological recovery. Among the most frequent traits are alexithymia, cognitive rigidity, and social anhedonia. Furthermore, conventional therapies are often less effective in these patients. The underdiagnosis of ASD in women exacerbates the problem; therefore, it is recommended to incorporate early detection tools and adapt treatments with a gender perspective.