Autism is a developmental disorder with onset in infancy. The presentation of
symptoms of autism can vary greatly, however, the deficits necessary for
diagnosing it are as follows:
- Impairment in reciprocal social interaction (e.g., limited eye contact,
responding to people as if they are objects).
- Communicative deficits (e.g., limited or no verbal communicative skills,
problems using pronouns).
- Repetitive behavior or marked adherence to specific routines (e.g., body
rocking, problems transitioning from one activity or environment to another).
The best current scientific evidence indicates that Autism is caused by
genetically determined problems in brain development. The range of impairment
and variability in behavioral symptoms of autism present many challenges in
determining whether autism is one kind of problem or many different problems
that are somewhat related. The earliest reliable estimates of the prevalence
of autism indicated that this disorder occurs in roughly 2-4 children per
10,000. More recently it has been found that the prevalence of autism is likely
closer to 2-4 per 1,000 children and if the entire autism spectrum is included
prevalence may be 6 per 1,000 or higher.
Autism can be reliably diagnosed by or before age 3. Parents and expert
clinicians can usually detect symptoms of autism during infancy, although a
formal diagnosis is generally not made until the child fails to develop
functional language by age 2. Boys are three-to-four times more likely to be
affected by autism than girls and children with autism often also have mental
retardation. Autism occurs in all racial, ethnic, and social groups.
Although there is currently no known cure for autism, autism treatment is
available. Persons with autism can make progress if they receive appropriate,
individual intervention. Preschool children who receive intensive, individualized,
behavioral interventions have been shown to make marked progress with some
eventually losing their diagnosis of autism.
We have compiled some of our frequently asked questions about autism, and
related disorders to a convenient reference, intended to provide basic information
about autism and autism treatment to the general public. Please note that it is
not intended to constitute medical advice; we always recommend you speak with a
trained professional.
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