Autism

Autism, or Autistic Disorder, is a brain-based disorder that affects a child's social interaction, communication and causes other behavioral patterns that interfere with daily functioning. It's a syndrome that appears before three years of age and is considered a lifelong disorder. Autism is characterized by an inability to form emotional ties including a lack of responsiveness to other people. Language skills in children with autism are delayed, abnormal or absent. Language problems are typically present by the second year of life. A third area of concern for children with autism is the presence of odd repetitive movements and routines that are distinctly different from other children. Intellectual ability among children with autism varies greatly from intellectual disability to average intelligence and above.

Other co-existing problems are often associated with autism. These other conditions can include but are not limited to problems processing sensory information, sleep disorder, underlying genetic syndromes such as Fragile X, or seizure disorder.

The incidence of autism is estimated to be 1 to 2 children per 1,000 born in the general population. With the publication of best practice standards for clinical screening, diagnosis and assessment of children suspected of having autism (see link below), accuracy of the diagnostic process has improved significantly. Because many of the symptoms of autism are shared with several other childhood disorders, formal diagnostic evaluation is needed by a qualified psychologist or developmental pediatrician to ensure an accurate diagnosis. The earlier the disorder is diagnosed, the sooner the child can be helped through treatment interventions. Reliable diagnoses can typically be achieved by age 3 years.

For more information on autism go to:

National Institute of Health's Autism section http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/autism/complete-index.shtml

National Autism Speaks website http://www.autismspeaks.org

 

For current information on screening, diagnosis and assessment of autism see the following:

(2MB file) Autistic Spectrum Disorders: Best Practice Guidelines for Screening, Diagnosis and Assessment provides recommendations, guidance and information about current “best practice” in the field. These Guidelines offer evidence-based recommendations and are not to be interpreted as policy or regulation. (published by DDS, 188 pages).

 

 

 

 

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