Autism-An Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism is a developmental disorder affecting the function of the brain. It is one of the Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and is characterized by difficulties with verbal and non verbal communication. Another ASD disorder is Asperger Syndrome. Autism is not a mental illness as it is sometimes perceived. The disorder is usually apparent during the first three years of life and affects individuals of all races and from all educational and economic background.

Researchers are still trying to find the cause of autism. They believe there may a genetic basis because the chance is 1:20 of a second sibling having the disorder; this is much higher than the general public. Identical twins are more likely to be both affected than non-identical. A group of researchers has found a link between an abnormal gene and the disorder.

Incidence- Autism is more prevalent than Downs Syndrome, Cystic Fibrosis, Childhood Cancer and Multiple Sclerosis. It is estimated that 3-6:1000 children in the United States are autistic. The ratio of males to females is 4:1.

Characteristics of Autism
Individuals with autism may display some or all of the following characteristics:

• Resistive to cuddling
• Repetitive behavior
• Difficulty with changes in routine such as changes in meal times, resulting in tantrums
• Aversion to eye contact, or difficulty sustaining eye contact
• Delays in using verbal language
• Extremes of behavior: aggressive or overly passive.Usually apparent before age 3
• Difficulties with verbal and non verbal communication

These characteristics are displayed in varying degrees by each individual, from mild to severe.

Diagnosis- Autism may be diagnosed only when a child fails to reach a certain milestone, or when the child enters school. Diagnosis is by observation: the child’s behavior, social interaction and communication skills are assessed. Sometimes it can be misunderstood for Tuberous Sclerosis or Phenylketonuria. It is usually apparent in the first 3 years of life.

Treatment and Cure- There is no cure for autism, but treatment and early intervention can improve the quality of life of autistic persons. With the right treatment some can improve to the extent that they appear to no longer have the disorder. They respond well when taught with the same tools, with special teachers in a structured environment. Experts agree that treatment carried out in the home in conjunction with school or day care is best. Intervention before age 3 is crucial.

Training- Training in music, speech and language therapy will improve social and language ability.

Behavior therapy- Behavior therapy beginning in the first three years of life and into the teen age years is recommended to decrease symptoms.

Occupational Therapy- Occupational therapy (OT) for play activities is beneficial when the ability to participate in tasks is affected. The tasks such as self help, play, school readiness and living independently may be compromised by other health problems. OT focuses on pre-school skills, school skills and self help skills.

Medication- This is sometimes effective in managing self destructive or aggressive behavior.

Alternative Therapy- Megavitamins have known to reduce symptoms and the severity of autism, but research findings have not provided enough evidence to promote them.

Research- Researchers are still trying to find the cause of autism and to account for the differences that occur in the brain. Until such time it is not possible to prevent or cure the disorder. The researchers are geared to study the effects of early intervention with children diagnosed with the disorder. The study will explore intervention with toddlers 16-20 months of age. They are hoping to discover how effective intervention will be with this age group.