Disorders of Autism Spectrum

Autism in a child is first detected by the parents when they notice that their baby doesn't respond to their affections, or looks constantly at some object. When you notice that an otherwise cheerful child has suddenly become quiet and aloof, it's time to consult the doctor. Autism is one of the most commonly occurring disorders in children. It usually starts before the age of three and includes a wide range of symptoms that are caused due to more than one disorder that are included under the umbrella term Autism Spectrum.

Disorders of Autism Spectrum
Autism Spectrum includes the following categories:

• Autistic disorders also known as classic autism.
• Asperger syndrome.
• Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS) also referred to as atypical autism.
• Rett syndrome.
• Childhood disintegrative disorder.

Autistic Disorders or the Classic Autism
This includes most severe symptoms of Autism that are manifested quite early in childhood. It is marked by changes in behavioral characteristics like impairment in social interaction and communication, and repetitive behavior. Children who suffer from this disorder tend to stay aloof. They fail to establish social relationship using proper eye contact, physical gestures or facial expressions and lack emotional or social reciprocity. Their ability to speak gets delayed and they develop other speech related problems as well. Autistic children show lack of symbolic play. They tend to be attached to parts of toys and objects or to just one particular toy. They show interest in lining up toys or dropping objects repeatedly from a particular height. They are observed to repeat words or actions, follow routines or schedules obsessively, and play in a repetitive way.

Asperger Syndrome
Asperger syndrome is regarded as the mildest form of Autism-spectrum disorders. Although it displays certain symptoms typical of the classic Autism, the development of intelligence and verbal skills of a child takes place unhindered. Children suffering from Asperger syndrome show marked impairment in communicating through non verbal modes like eye to eye contact and proper body postures. They have delayed or impaired motor skills development and seem to be obsessed with routines and rituals.

Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS) or Atypical Autism
This is a 'subthreshold' condition which is marked by repetitive behavior and difficulty in communicating, establishing peer relationships or social interactions. However, the symptoms of this disorder do not qualify to be labeled as a typical Autistic disorder or any specific pervasive development disorder, Schizophrenia or Avoidant personality disorder. This disorder usually has a late age of onset.

Rett's Disorder
This disorder is more prevalent in females than in males. In Rett's disorder, development is normal initially, however, after a few months growth of head decelerates. The child even loses previously acquired verbal and motor skills. The child finds it difficult to balance and co-ordinate his movements. With age intellectual disability and mental retardation sets in.

Childhood Disintegrative Disorder
This a rather rare condition. It was first described in 1908, by Theodore Heller, a special educator in Vienna. A child suffering from this disorder develops normally up to 2 to 4 years before the symptoms of Autism start to manifest. In this disorder there is a loss of linguistic abilities, interest in social interactions and general environment, and self care abilities. The child also loses bowel or bladder control.

While Autism is proved to have a strong genetic basis there have been reports of vaccines as being one of the causes of autism. However, relationship between autism and vaccination has not been scientifically established.

Childhood is an age of innocence and fun. It is sad to see any child showing inability to communicate or interact socially. However, with proper behavioral therapy, educational options and medical care, we can provide a healthy life for our Autistic children.