Autism spectrum
Overview
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental condition that involves persistent challenges in social interaction, speech and nonverbal communication, and restricted/repetitive behaviors. The effects of ASD and the severity of symptoms are different in each person. ASD is a spectrum disorder, meaning it encompasses a range of linked conditions, each with its own set of symptoms, and includes Asperger's syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder, and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS).
Characteristics
Autism spectrum disorder is characterized by a certain set of behaviors and is a "spectrum condition" that affects individuals differently and to varying degrees. There is no known single cause for autism spectrum disorder, but it is generally accepted that it is caused by abnormalities in brain structure or function. Brain scans show differences in the shape and structure of the brain in individuals with autism compared to neurotypical individuals.
Social Communication and Interaction
People with ASD often have difficulty with social interaction and communication. They may fail to respond to their names, avoid eye contact with other people, and only interact with others to achieve specific goals. They often do not understand how to play or engage with other children and may prefer to be alone. People with ASD may find it difficult to understand other people's feelings or talk about their own feelings.
Patterns of Behavior
People with ASD often have repetitive behaviors and restricted interests. These behaviors can range from repeating certain words or phrases, to obsessively following routines and schedules, to having more unusual behaviors like flipping objects or echolalia. People with ASD also often have intense and highly-focused interests, often in specific topics or objects.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing ASD can be difficult because there is no medical test, like a blood test, to diagnose the disorder. Doctors look at the child’s behavior and development to make a diagnosis. ASD can sometimes be detected at 18 months or younger. By age 2, a diagnosis by an experienced professional can be considered very reliable. However, many children do not receive a final diagnosis until much older. This delay means that children with ASD might not get the early help they need.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of ASD is not known. A variety of factors may lead to ASD, including genetic, environmental, and neurological factors. There is some evidence to suggest that ASD could be hereditary and may run in families. Certain genes associated with ASD can affect brain development or the way that brain cells communicate. Environmental factors may also play a role in gene function and development, but no specific environmental causes have been identified.
Treatment and Care
There is no cure for ASD, but research shows that early intervention treatment services can greatly improve a child’s development. Early intervention services help children from birth to 3 years old learn important skills. Services can include therapy to help the child talk, walk, and interact with others. For school-aged children and adolescents, intervention typically involves behavioral treatments, medicines or both. Many people with ASD have additional medical conditions such as sleep disturbance, seizures and gastrointestinal (GI) distress. Addressing these conditions can improve attention, learning and related behaviors.