A 46-year-old member asked:
how come the diagosis of autism spectrum disorders sort of swallowed up all the disabled children?
2 doctor answers • 8 doctors weighed in
Dr. Cindy Juster answered
Pediatrics 36 years experience
It hasn't.: There are lots of disabilities other than autism spectrum disorders. The reason why it seems that autism diagnoses are more common is that we have learned that autism is not just the severe form (like rain man), but includes a whole spectrum, ranging from severe down to very mild (like asperger's syndrome).
5740 viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Johanna Fricke answered
Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics 50 years experience
Overshadowed, not: Swallowed up. It is a " preferred diagnosis" because it directs more intensive behavioral services, from which all kids with neurodevelopmental disorders would benefit. Though intellectual disability occurs in 40-68% of kids with autism, that's, understandably, tough for parents to hear.Autism is a categorical diagnosis, not an etiology. Medical & genetic evaluations are needed.
5472 viewsReviewed >2 years ago
90,000 U.S. doctors in 147 specialties are here to answer your questions or offer you advice, prescriptions, and more. Get help now:
90,000 U.S. doctors in 147 specialties are here to answer your questions or offer you advice, prescriptions, and more. Get help now:
Last updated Oct 3, 2016
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits
$15 per month
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.