Asperger syndrome

• Asperger syndrome, also known as Asperger's disorder or simply Asperger's, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is characterized by significant difficulties in social interaction and communication, as well as repetitive patterns of behavior and interests.

Intelligence

• The condition is considered to be on the "high functioning" end of the autism spectrum, and individuals with Asperger's often possess average or above-average intelligence.

Causes

• The exact causes of Asperger's are not well understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Risk factors

• Research has suggested that there may be a genetic component to the disorder, as it tends to run in families.
• However, no specific genes have been identified as the cause of Asperger's.
• Environmental factors, such as prenatal exposure to toxins or viruses, may also play a role.

Diagnostic criteria

• The primary diagnostic criteria for Asperger's include difficulty with social interactions, difficulty with communication, and repetitive patterns of behavior and interests.
• Individuals with Asperger's may struggle with nonverbal communication, such as making eye contact or interpreting body language.
• They may also have difficulty understanding social cues and may appear insensitive to the feelings of others.
• Additionally, individuals with Asperger's may have a strong interest in a specific subject or activity, which can become an obsession, and may engage in repetitive behaviors or routines.

Team

• The diagnosis of Asperger's is typically made by a team of healthcare professionals, including a neurologist, a psychologist, and a speech therapist. The process may involve a combination of observation, interviews, and standardized assessments.

Management

While there is no cure for Asperger's, there are a variety of interventions that can help individuals with the disorder improve their social and communication skills, as well as manage their repetitive behaviors and interests. These interventions may include:

1. Behavioral therapy: This type of therapy focuses on teaching individuals with Asperger's the social and communication skills they need to interact effectively with others.
2. Speech therapy: This type of therapy focuses on improving an individual's ability to communicate effectively, including nonverbal communication and understanding of social cues.
3. Occupational therapy: This type of therapy focuses on improving an individual's ability to engage in daily activities, such as dressing and grooming, and managing repetitive behaviors.
4. Medications: Certain medications, such as antidepressants, may be prescribed to help manage the symptoms of Asperger's, such as anxiety or depression.

Strengths and weaknesses

• It's important to note that people with Asperger's have unique strengths and abilities, and with proper support and understanding, they can lead fulfilling and successful lives.

Summary

• Asperger syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is characterized by significant difficulties in social interaction and communication, as well as repetitive patterns of behavior and interests.
• It is considered to be on the "high functioning" end of the autism spectrum, and individuals with Asperger's often possess average or above-average intelligence.
• While there is no cure for Asperger's, various interventions are available to help individuals with the disorder improve their social and communication skills, as well as manage their repetitive behaviors and interests.

References

1. American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). American Psychiatric Publishing.
2. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2019). Asperger Syndrome Fact Sheet. Retrieved from https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Asperger-Syndrome-Fact-Sheet
3. National Autistic Society. (2019). Asperger syndrome. Retrieved from https://www.autism.org.uk/about/what-is/asperger
4. Asperger's and High-Functioning Autism Association. (2019). What is Asperger Syndrome? Retrieved from https://ahafoundation.org/aspergers-syndrome/
5. National Autistic Society. (2019). Asperger syndrome. Retrieved from https://www.autism.org.uk/about/what-is/asperger
6. National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. (2019). Asperger Syndrome. Retrieved from https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/asperger
7. American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. (2019). Asperger Syndrome. Retrieved from https://www.aacap.org/AACAP/Families_and_Youth/Resource_Centers/Asperger_Syndrome_Resource_Center/Home.aspx
8. National Autistic Society. (2019). Interventions and treatments for Asperger syndrome. Retrieved from https://www.autism.org.uk/about/what-is/asperger/interventions
9. American Academy of Pediatrics. (2015). Asperger Syndrome and High-Functioning Autism. Retrieved from https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/Autism/Pages/Asperger-Syndrome-and-High-Functioning-Autism.aspx

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Classification	ICD-10: F84.5 OMIM: 608638 DiseasesDB: 31268
External resources	MedlinePlus: 001549 eMedicine: ped/147