Autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders, with an estimated incidence of 1 in 88 children [1]. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fourth edition (DSM-IV), a diagnosis of ASD requires the fulfillment of a minimum of six behavioral diagnostic criteria from the following three domains: at least two symptoms of impairment of social interaction, at least one symptom of impairment in communication, and at least one symptom of restricted repetitive and stereotyped patterns of behavior [2]. Moreover, ASD requires symptoms of delay or abnormal functioning with onset prior to age 3 years in at least one of the following three domains: social interaction, language as used in social communication, and symbolic or imaginative play.
