Pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified

Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)

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Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS), including atypical autism, is a classification of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) in the DSM-5 and was previously a part of the broader category of Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD) in the DSM-IV.

Overview

PDD-NOS is used to describe individuals with significant impairments in social and communication skills, as well as stereotypical behaviors, but who do not fully meet the criteria for other specific disorders within the autism spectrum.

Criteria and Diagnosis

According to the DSM-IV, PDD-NOS is diagnosed based on severe impairment in the development of reciprocal social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication skills, or when stereotyped behavior, interests, and activities are present. This includes cases where symptoms of autism are present but do not fully meet the complete criteria, such as:

• Late age of onset
• Atypical symptomatology
• Subthreshold symptomatology

Characteristics

PDD-NOS encompasses a range of symptoms and behaviors, including:

• Difficulties in social interaction
• Challenges in verbal and nonverbal communication
• Repetitive behaviors or narrow, obsessive interests
• Variability in cognitive and language abilities

Changes in DSM-5

In the DSM-5, PDD-NOS, along with other subtypes of autism, were subsumed under the single diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This change reflects a more nuanced understanding of autism as a spectrum of disorders with varying symptoms and severities.

Management and Treatment

Treatment for PDD-NOS is individualized and may include:

• Behavioral interventions
• Speech and language therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Educational support
• Medication for associated symptoms such as anxiety or ADHD

Historical Perspective

PDD-NOS, including atypical autism, emerged as a diagnostic category to capture those individuals who did not meet the criteria for classical autism or other specific disorders, highlighting the diversity within the spectrum of developmental disorders.

References

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