Autistic disorder

Autistic Disorder
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Impaired social interaction, communication challenges, repetitive behaviors
Complications	N/A
Onset	Early childhood
Duration	Lifelong
Types	N/A
Causes	Genetic and environmental factors
Risks	Family history, male gender
Diagnosis	Based on behavior and developmental history
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Behavioral therapy, educational interventions
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	1 in 54 children in the United States
Deaths	N/A

Autistic Disorder, also known as Autism, is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by challenges with social interaction, communication, and by restricted and repetitive behavior. It is part of the autism spectrum, which includes other conditions such as Asperger syndrome and Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS).

Signs and Symptoms

Individuals with autistic disorder exhibit a range of symptoms that can vary widely in severity. Common signs include:

• Social Interaction Difficulties: Challenges in understanding social cues, difficulty in forming peer relationships, and lack of interest in sharing enjoyment or interests with others.
• Communication Challenges: Delayed speech development, difficulty in sustaining conversations, and atypical use of language.
• Repetitive Behaviors: Engaging in repetitive movements, insistence on sameness, and intense focus on specific interests.
• Sensory Sensitivities: Over- or under-reactivity to sensory stimuli such as sounds, lights, or textures.

Causes

The exact cause of autistic disorder is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

• Genetic Factors: Studies have shown that autism tends to run in families, suggesting a genetic component. Several genes have been associated with an increased risk of autism.
• Environmental Factors: Prenatal and perinatal factors, such as advanced parental age, low birth weight, and exposure to certain drugs during pregnancy, may contribute to the risk of developing autism.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of autistic disorder is based on the observation of behavior and developmental history. There are no medical tests, such as blood tests, to diagnose autism.

• Developmental Screening: Regular screening during well-child visits can help identify children at risk for autism.
• Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation: A thorough evaluation by a team of specialists, including a psychologist, neurologist, and speech therapist, is often necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

While there is no cure for autistic disorder, early intervention and tailored treatment plans can significantly improve outcomes.

• Behavioral Therapy: Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a widely used approach that focuses on improving specific behaviors.
• Educational Interventions: Structured educational programs can help children with autism develop communication and social skills.
• Medications: While no medications can cure autism, certain drugs can help manage symptoms such as anxiety, depression, or hyperactivity.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with autistic disorder varies. Some individuals may lead independent lives, while others may require ongoing support. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for improving the quality of life.

Epidemiology

Autistic disorder affects approximately 1 in 54 children in the United States, with a higher prevalence in males than females.

See Also

• Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Asperger Syndrome
• Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified

External Links

• Autism Speaks
• CDC Autism Information