Autism is a developmental disorder characterized by impaired social interaction, problems with verbal and nonverbal communication, and unusual, repetitive activities. Estimates are that 3 to 6 children in 1,000 in the US have autism. Males are four times more likely to have autism than females. It is estimated that 1.2 to 1.5 million US citizens with the disorder could grow to 4 million in the next 10 years. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has called autism an urgent health concern.

The hallmark character of autism is impaired social interaction. Infants with autism may be unresponsive to people and will focus instead on one item for long periods of time. Children with autism may develop normally then withdraw and become indifferent to social interaction. Children with autism may not respond to their name. They do not understand social cues such as tone of voice or facial expressions. Many engage in repetitive movements such as rocking or twirling or in self-abusive behaviors such as head-banging. They do not know how to play with other children. They may talk on about a narrow range of topics with little regard for the interest of the person they are speaking to. Children with autism may be abnormally sensitive to touch, sound or other sensory stimuli. These sensitivities may lead to a resistance to being cuddled or hugged. About 20 to 30 percent of children with autism develop epilepsy by the time they reach adulthood.

The causes of autism are not known, but it is thought that both genetics and environment play a role. A number of genes have been identified that are associated with the disease. Irregularities in certain areas of the brain have also been identified in people with autism. Research has also shown abnormal levels of serotonin and other neurotransmitters, suggesting abnormal fetal brain development caused by defective genes that control brain growth and neuron communication. Environmental factors being investigated as possible causes include problems during pregnancy or delivery, viral infections, metabolic imbalances, and exposure to environmental chemicals.

Symptoms often improve with treatment and age. Some children with autism grow up to lead normal or near-normal lives. Diagnosis and treatment is complex, often involving a large team including a psychologist, neurologist, psychiatrist, speech therapist and other professionals specially trained to work with children with autism. Treatment consists of intensive educational and behavioral interventions that address the primary symptoms such as social and language skill development. Families are included in counseling and treatment interventions to help them cope with the difficulties associated with raising an autistic child. A variety of prescription medications may be used in treatment, including antidepressants which are used to treat depression, anxiety, and compulsive behaviors. Anti-psychotic medications are sometimes used to treat severe behavioral problems. Seizure disorders are treated with anticonvulsant medications. Stimulant medications used to treat Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are sometimes used to treat impulsivity and hyperactivity. There are many controversial treatments and interventions available for autism whose effectiveness have not been supported by scientific evidence. Parents should be very cautious when choosing treatment.

Reference: Autism Fact Sheet: National Institutes of Health, available at http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/autism/detail_autism.htm.

[Return to Archive Index]

[PageTop]