EC Psychology And Psychiatry

Savant syndrome (SS) is a unique and rare condition in which individuals with developmental concerns, such as autism or central nervous system (CNS) diseases or illnesses, demonstrate exceptional 'islands of genius' that stand in a striking juxtaposition to overall limitations. These characteristics mean that these individuals exhibit special abilities in some areas. Special skills may often be in music, art, calendar calculations, arithmetic, or mechanical/visual/spatial capabilities. SS can be congenital (present from birth through infancy) or acquired following a brain injury or CNS dysfunction. Typically, it is associated with severe brain metabolic abnormalities, resulting in significant brain network alterations. These alterations are frequently explained by the 'tyranny of the left hemisphere' hypothesis, which states that the left hemisphere is suppressed for the right hemisphere to acquire savant abilities. Neuromodulatory procedures such as transcranial magnetic and direct current stimulation can briefly replicate these brain alterations. These approaches can help discover the potential of 'hidden talent by regulating the metabolism of the brain network. This review explores, summarizes, and discloses the historical and contemporary definition and understanding of SS and its association with autism spectrum disorder and other possible conditions.

Keywords: Autism; Brain Metabolic Abnormalities; CNS Diseases; Neuromodulatory Procedures; Special Abilities

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