Introduction

. Autism or ASDs are neurodevelopmental disorders that affect socio-communicative development, interests, and a restricted and stereotyped pattern of interests and behavior. Epidemiological studies indicate that there are 3 times more boys affected with autism than girls but clinical studies indicate a much higher preponderance in favor of boys. There is an under detection of autism with a late or wrong diagnosis more frequently in girls and women with autism. Objective. To analyze the clinical presentation of autism in girls and women, factors related to under detection and diagnosis or diagnostic confusion, and mechanisms for improving its diagnosis and in tervention. Material and Methods. We will analyze the differences in the clinical presentation of autism between genders, social and cultural factors, cognitive aspects and differential comorbidities in boys and girls with autism, current limitations of diagnostic instruments for the evaluation of autism and which are aspects to improve for a better identification, earlier and more accurate of autism in the female gender. Conclusions. Autism in the female gender presents differential clinical, cognitive and biological characteristics associated with under detection and late diagnosis.