autism spectrum disorder

It is classified as Pervasive developmental disorder, and includes Asperger syndrome, Autism, Childhood disintegrative disorder & Rett syndrome. It is characterized by Social deficits, Communication difficulties, Stereotyped or repetitive behaviors or interests & sometimes Cognitive delays.

For decades, the broad term for disorders like autism has been Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD). It included autism, Asperger's Disorders, and several other seemingly related disorders. For the past 10 years of so, ASD has become increasingly popular and probably will be the new umbrella term for autism and related disorders in the new diagnostic manual due out in a year or so.

Variable etiology ,autism spectrum still amazes all of us researchers in the field as we are learning more about this disorder and the shades of the spectrum.It is also important for parents not to fall into the traps of non scientific celebrities like we had in the past, who prey on innocent parents, visit the best centers for latest science ,like Yale developmental center, AACAP,NIMH

Autism manifests in various forms, probably has various causes,& is extremely complex to treat. Behavioral & social interventions are important,& increasingly psychoactive medications play an important role. These meds need be carefully selected & titrated for the individual, possibly addressing such features as anxiety, anger, mood, hyperactivity, etc. See a true expert& get the right Rx.

What is now being called ASD is a cluster of disorders that have in common major disruption typically from a very early age in the development of social interactions, communication, and behaviors. The cause(s) remain unknown. The core feature is a markedly diminised to absent ability to socially connect with others. Language is absent or odd, as are some behaviors.

A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimated ASD at 1 in 88 live births, the highest estimate yet. This contrasts with estimates from 20 years ago of 5-10 in 10,000. What is unclear is why this has changed so much. Some believe it mostly is because of changing definitions and increased recognition of the problem; others insist it is a true change. Time will tell.

The MINDInstitute near Sacramento, CA, is one of the premier research institutes in the study of Autism, Fragile X, and other neurodevelopmental disorders. Their study showed no benefit from Vitamin B12 for people with Autism. You can find the study on their website, www.MINDInstitute.org. Another website for general questions about scientifically unproven treatments is quackwatch.org

There is not a single type of autism. Every one with this label functions a little differently. But in general each one has some depree of problem with: social skills, empathy, communication, and flexible behavior. The level of disability and combination of problems vary greatly from individual to individual. Some speak normally, others don't speak at all.

Severe anxiety does not cause ASD. However, children with very severe anxiety disorders can be miss diagnosed as ASD! Additionally, patient's with ASD can be very anxious!!

"It depends if he wants to marry you." There are so many variables that are unknown in any marriage. Autistic people can have happy productive lives with a partner. Make sure you communicate and have realistic expectations about the future. There are adult support groups for adults with autism.