MAIN Health Diseases & Conditions Autism

Autism is a brain disorder that is usually diagnosed in childhood. Abnormally slow child development such as in language skills or in socialization are typical early signs of the disease, which occurs much more frequently in boys than in girls.

Research on autism is ongoing, but at present there is no known cure and no single identifiable cause.

Autism - Vaccine Controversy

Some evidence has pointed to the use of early childhood vaccines as a possible cause, especially those containing a preservative that contains small amounts of mercury.

In 2008, the Hannah Poling case - in which a toddler was striken following the adminstration of 5 childhood vaccinations - only served to reignite the controversy.

However, follow-up studies have thus far failed to establish a link between childhood vaccinations and autistic symptoms. Rather, genetic factors are now more strongly indicated, say scientists, as the most likely cause of the disease.

Common Symptoms

Signs of autism in children usually manifest in resistance to holding or cuddling, little or no eye contact, and a marked preference for solitary play. Language skills are also usually late in developing, and when mimicking speech they appear not to know the meaning of words and sometimes will continually repeat a word or phrase in a monotone.

Behavioral problems most often appear in constant movement, spinning, rocking back and forth or other repetitive behaviors. Unusual sensitivity to light, sound or touch, or visible annoyance at disruption in daily routines or surroundings are also hallmarks of autistic behavior in the young.

Treatment

Since there is no standard treatment for autistic symptoms, parents must choose from a sometimes myriad of therapies to address the social, behavioral and communications challenges that autism poses. These may include working with a team of specialists to help the autistic child improve language skills or how to behave in social situations.

Parents may also opt for alternative or complementary therapies with only anecdotal evidence of their effectiveness, such as art or music therapy, diet regimins or vitamin supplements. Antidepressant drug therapies may also be prescribed to treat symptoms of hyperactivity or anti-psychotics to treat aggresive behaviors.

Despite how little is still known about the disease, it is now evident that the earlier it is diagnosed the better the chances for successfully treating the most common symptoms of austism.

On the Web

On the Web, discover more about what medical science is doing to treat or prevent autism, how to locate treatment specialists, clinical trials, or find helpful tips & advice from parents who also face the many challenges of caring for the autistic child ....

Autism Fact Sheet - Clear introduction to the topic including details on signs & symptoms, diagnosis, causes, treatment and related research with helpful links to autism organizations.

Autism Society of America - One-stop browsing for autism resources geared to teachers, parents and professionals plus a browseable database of ASA chapters nationwide, related statistics, news & updates, tips and advice for caretakers.

Autism - Excellent overview from Wikipedia covering the history of the disease, related symptoms, diagnosis and related controversies, extensive references and links to more information.

Inside the autism treatment maze - Archived MSNBC report covering recent research and the latest treatment options being explored including behaviorial therapies, pivotal response therapy, gluten and casin free diets, B-6 vitamin therapies, antidepressants and anti-psychotic drugs.

Putting Together Your Child's Treatment Team - Information on what roles specialists play in the treatment of autism and where to find them online, including questions to ask and what to look for in qualified developmental pediatrians, neurologists, therapists and counselors.

ClinicalTrials.gov - Autistic Disorder - Information on clinical trials now being conducted in research centers across the U.S. with contact details and eligibility requirements.

Autism & Asperger's Syndrome - From BBC Health with details on how to spot autism and other related symptoms, causes & treatment, Asperger's syndrome facts & demographics, questions to ask your doctor, with an online presentation of a a BBC television special on the topic, related links.

Austism Society of Canada - Excellent, easily navigable guide to the topic including information on screening, diagnosis and treatments, tips for parents of autistic children, where to get help within Canada, conference and events calendar, professional resources, related links.

Autism Forums & Support Groups:

Also see in Diseases -> ADD / ADHD

This information is intended as reference and not as medical advice.
All treatment decisions should be made by medical professionals.