ASD
What is Autism or Autism spectrum disorders (ASD)?
What is Autism or Autism spectrum disorders (ASD)?
Autism is a neurological developmental and behavioral disorder impacting communication and social interaction skills. Many show very restricted interest bordering on obsession and repetitive behavior known as stereotype behavior. The most visible signs of Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) tend to appear between the ages of 2 to 3 years though in some cases, it can be diagnosed as early as 18 months. However, the timing and severity of autism’s first symptoms vary widely.
The symptoms range from mild to severe and have now been grouped under “Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)” by DSM-5. The word “spectrum” has been added to denote the wide gamut of symptoms it encompasses.
Autism Spectrum Disorder along with Asperger’s syndrome, Childhood Disintegration disorder, Pervasive Developmental Delay (not otherwise specified) are commonly known as Pervasive Developmental Disorder and Rett’s syndrome.
Though the exact cause for autism is not known certain factors are suspected to play a role which include
The signs and symptoms of autism vary from individual to individual and may differ in their intensity and occurrence. However, some red flags which if present may support the suspension that the child is autistic. A typical Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) child appears to be shy and introverted in nature.
Communication – Speech and communication difficulties are one of the most important signs of ASD.
Repetitive behavior – Another important sign of autism is repetitive or stereotypical behavior known as Stimming.
As per DSM-V Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or Pervasive Developmental disorder encompasses:
Asperger’s Syndrome – It is a milder form of autism and was first described by a pediatrician Dr. Hans Asperger in 1944. In this condition, speech development is usually normal and the child may have normal intelligence but
Childhood disintegration disorder – It is also known as Heller’s syndrome. It is a relatively rare disorder where the child may exhibit normal development until he is 2 to 3 years and then gradually loses his language, social and motor skills before the age of ten. Initially few behavioral changes can be noticed like
Pervasive Developmental Delay (not otherwise specified) also known as Atypical Autism. It is when an individual displays autistic behavior and poor interactive skills but may not meet the complete criteria of Autism are labeled under this group and is also known as sub-threshold autism or atypical autism. There is no set pattern of symptoms but many children exhibit symptoms like –
Rett Syndrome – is a brain disorder affecting mostly girls by six months of age and is relatively rare. It is characterized by-
Diagnosis- There are no single diagnostic tests for autism. It is based on analysis and assessment of a child’s behavior pattern and development by trained doctors or psychologists. If a child shows signs suspected of Autism then the child is assessed on various scales of Autism like Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS). Various questionnaires are devised to ascertain the child’s social, communicative and cognitive skills. Generally, many parents ignore early signs of autistic behavior as general mood swings, or delayed milestones and approach the doctor much later. Early evaluation and diagnosis help to normalize the child and prognosis are much better compared to late diagnosis.
Treatment- Unfortunately there is no treatment for autism in conventional methods. It can be controlled by counseling, behavioral corrections, a good diet, and vitamin supplements. Medicines are given to associated symptoms like sleep disturbances, seizures, etc.
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