A Review on Autism

Abstract

Autism is a developmental disorder characterized by difficulties with social interaction and communication and by restricted and repetitive behavior. It is a group of neurodevelopment disorders known as pervasive developmental disorders(PDD). These disorders are characterized by three core deficits: impaired communication, impaired reciprocal social interaction and restricted, repetitive and stereotyped patterns of behaviors or interests. The presentation of these impairments is variable in range and severity and often changes with the acquisition of other developmental skills. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is typically diagnosed in childhood and has a wide range symptoms, some being more severe than others. These symptoms consist of communication, socialization, behavioral and interest impairments, as well as minimal social skills. Due to these symptoms, a child with ASD may have trouble relating to peers and forming meaningful relationships. Children diagnosed with autism communicate verbally, nonverbally or a combination of both. Autism is associated with a combination of genetic and environmental. Risk factors during pregnancy include certain infections, such as rubella, toxins including valproic acid, alcohol, cocaine, pesticides and air pollution, fetal growth restriction, and autoimmune diseases. Controversies surround other proposed environmental causes; for example, the vaccine hypothesis, which has been disproven. Autism affects information processing in the brain by altering connections and organization of nerve cells and their synapses. The types of autism is Autistic Disorder, Asperger Syndrome, Pervasive development disorder. Diagnosis is based on behavior, not cause or mechanism. Treatment included Education, high dose vitamin, melatonin to address sleep issues, Medication and drugs included Atypical drugs risperidone and aripiprazole.