Do Neuroimaging Gaps Exist in Developmental Disabilities?

Although neuroimaging has advanced with respect to autism and Down syndrome, ADHD and intellectual disability still require standardized imaging protocols, as noted by the researchers of a study presented at the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) Annual Meeting 2025.

“Neuroimaging plays a crucial role in understanding cognitive and developmental disabilities, offering insights into disease and its progression. Despite its significance, there is a need to assess advancements in neuroimaging modalities and their impact on treatment approach,” the researchers noted.

The investigators sought to assess approaches to neuroimaging for autism, ADHD, intellectual disability, and Down syndrome and to discern any relevant gaps that may need to be addressed in the accepted approach.

In this review, the investigators compared accepted neuroimaging modalities for autism, ADHD, intellectual disability, and Down syndrome. They identified techniques such as structural MRI, functional MRI, and diffusion tensor imaging and assessed the rationale behind their use and gaps. Early diagnosis, risk assessment, and neurodegeneration monitoring were analyzed for each modality, the researchers noted.

The findings showed that neuroimaging for autism and Down syndrome is well developed and has specific approaches. The analysis revealed that early risk assessment is key in autism, whereas the focus for Down syndrome is on neurodegeneration. Conversely, the researchers observed that standardized neuroimaging protocols  for ADHD and intellectual disability are lacking. They noted that although functional and structural MRI are common, no “gold standard” exists.

“Further research is necessary to develop consistent imaging and treatment frameworks, which could improve diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes for these conditions,” the researchers concluded.

Harmandian T, Kim A, Koenig E, Ago R, Dinh M. Exploring neuroimaging gaps in developmental disabilities: a comparative perspective. Poster presented at: American Academy of Neurology 2025 Annual Meeting; April 5-9, 2025; San Diego, CA.