Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)

Description

A developmental disorder that usually occurs in first three years of life. Some children develop normally until the second year, and then start to manifest symptoms. The disorder affects normal brain development which is related to social and communicational skills. No, any particular reason is known, but it is believed that genetic and environmental factors contribute to the development of this disorder. There is not any evidence that autism is linked with the vaccination.

Symptoms

Symptoms usually appear until 18th month and most parents notice that something is wrong until the second year. Children have difficulties in games of simulation, social interaction, nonverbal communication, language development and they show insufficiently developed social skills. Some children are developing normally till the second year, and then retrogressing.

Overview

Anamnesis is being taken and physical examination is being done. There is no blood analysis or imaging procedure that can confirm this disorder. Diagnosis is based on eliminating other causes of behavior and with screening tests using the methods, such as Autism Diagnostic Interview – revised, Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS), Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS), and/or Gillian autism rating scale.

Specialists

General Practice, Psychology

Therapy

It is the best to start the treatment in early age and to approach individually to the patient. Therapies are used separately or in combination, and they are: ABA therapy, medicines, working therapy, speech and language therapy. Medicines that can be used include certain antidepressants, antipsychotics, and stimulants.