Autism Spectrum Disorder, Causes, Signs and Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

Summary

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting communication, social interaction, and behavior. It includes disorders like autism, Asperger's syndrome, and childhood disintegrative disorder. The exact cause is unclear but is believed to involve genetic and environmental factors. Symptoms typically appear by age two and vary in severity, including poor social interactions, repetitive behaviors, and sensory sensitivities. Diagnosis is based on observation, genetic testing, and behavioral assessments. While there's no cure, early treatments like therapy and medications can significantly improve development and quality of life for individuals with ASD.

Takeaways

• 😀 Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a range of neurodevelopmental disorders that affect social and communication skills, as well as behavior.
• 😀 The condition includes various forms, such as autism, Asperger's syndrome, and childhood disintegrative disorder, which are now all classified under ASD.
• 😀 ASD begins in early childhood and lasts throughout a person's life, affecting approximately 62.2 million people globally as of 2015.
• 😀 Males are more frequently diagnosed with ASD than females.
• 😀 The exact cause of ASD is unknown, but research suggests a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
• 😀 Certain risk factors for ASD include a family history of the condition, being male, having genetic disorders like Down syndrome or fragile X syndrome, and extreme prematurity (birth before 26 weeks).
• 😀 Common symptoms of ASD include difficulty with social interactions, poor eye contact, and delayed or atypical verbal and nonverbal communication skills.
• 😀 ASD can also involve repetitive behaviors, limited interests, sensitivity to sensory stimuli, and routines that can become disrupted easily.
• 😀 There is no medical test to diagnose ASD, but specialists typically use genetic testing, behavioral observations, and developmental assessments to make a diagnosis.
• 😀 While there is no cure for ASD, early and intensive therapy (such as behavioral, communication, educational, and occupational therapy) can greatly improve a child's functioning and development.

Q & A

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a range of neurodevelopmental disorders that affect a person's ability to socialize, communicate, and develop various basic skills. It includes conditions such as autism, Asperger's syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder, and pervasive developmental disorder.

What was the name change in the classification of autism in 2013?

In 2013, the American Psychiatric Association reclassified pervasive developmental disorder (PDD) to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The term PDD is no longer used by doctors.

How common is Autism Spectrum Disorder globally?

Autism Spectrum Disorder is estimated to affect about 62.2 million people globally as of 2015.

Which gender is more likely to be diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Males are more commonly diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder than females.

What are some known risk factors for developing Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Some known risk factors for developing Autism Spectrum Disorder include a family history of the condition, being male, having certain genetic conditions (e.g., Down syndrome, fragile X syndrome, Rett syndrome), older parents, extremely preterm babies, and other disorders such as tuberous sclerosis.

At what age are symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder usually noticeable?

Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder are usually noticeable by the age of two years.

What are some common social and communication symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Common social and communication symptoms include poor eye contact, difficulty responding to names, resistance to cuddling, difficulty with verbal and nonverbal communication (such as understanding gestures and facial expressions), and unusual tone of voice.

What are some common behavioral symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Common behavioral symptoms include repetitive movements like rocking or hand flapping, fixating on specific objects or activities, engaging in self-harm (e.g., head banging), heightened or reduced sensitivity to sensory input, and a preference for routine and rituals.

How is Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosed?

Autism Spectrum Disorder is diagnosed through observation, parental interviews, genetic testing (for conditions like fragile X syndrome), and tests covering hearing, speech, language, and developmental levels. Doctors follow the criteria outlined in the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders).

Is there a cure for Autism Spectrum Disorder?

There is no cure for Autism Spectrum Disorder, but intensive early treatment can significantly improve a child's ability to function by reducing symptoms and supporting development. Treatment options include therapy such as behavioral, communication, speech, occupational, and family therapy.