Autism, now relabeled as Autism Spectrum Disorder, is a neurodevelopment disorder that is characterized when a child displays decreased or lack of communication and social skills and interaction with others. According to the CDC, this condition affects approximately 1 in 60 overall but diagnosed more in males with a prevalence of 1 in 37. Previously, autism was considered a single disorder, however, it has been expanded to include Asperger’s and several other syndromes thus being a spectrum disorder. This disorder has a wide array of symptoms and presentations ranging from mild to severe. Children with this disorder exhibit social, emotional and language barriers making it difficult for the child to connect with others. Intellectual ability varies widely in this group. Some children are severe and require full support in all activities for daily living for life whereas others with early intervention and diagnosis have the ability to grow up, live, work, and function independently.
When should I be concerned about my child?
Autism symptoms are generally noticed in children around 15 -18 months. Symptoms are grouped into early and late signs. Early signs are recognized within the first 12 months but more often the later signs, seen at 18 months and older, are more easily recognized and prompts parents to seek a medical evaluation for their child.
EARLY SIGNS
| Decreased response to their name being called | Decrease or lack of eye contact | Decreased or no pointing |
| Lack of happy smiling face, cooing | No single words by 12 months | No two word phrases by 18 months |
| Lack of response to games such as “peek a boo” | Loss of previous language skills | Excessive lining up of toys |
LATER SIGNS
| Lack of imitative behavior | Lack of request of objects with words or pointing | Insensitive to others feelings |
| Repetitive language also known as echolalia | Lack of imaginative play | Language delays or unusual language use |
| Intense reactions to sounds, lights or smells | Inflexible to changes in foods or simple routines | Repetitive behaviors like flapping or rocking |
What causes autism?
Currently, scientist have not found the cause of ASD. It is believed that this spectrum disorder has a genetic predisposition as well as an environmental component that is unknown. Geneticists have found in twin studies that if one twin has autism, the identical twin has a 38 -95% chance of having autism. Because of the wide variability seen in the twin studies, data suggests a group of genes may be responsible. Parents have been concerned about vaccines but these studies declaring a cause and effect have long been refuted but fear of vaccinations still exist. Environmental triggers are still being studied as well but no clear link has been found.
How is ASD diagnosed?
ASD is diagnosed based on behavioral and development abnormalities. Blood tests can’t diagnose autism. Children are observed at their well child checks during the first three years but specifically screened at the 18 month and the 24month well child visit. Children can be diagnosed as early as 18 months but more often diagnosed around three years of age. Language and motor skills are assessed at each checkup. Parents who have concerns should discuss concerns with their physician at these visits. Early identification and intervention can make significant improvements that are more difficult as the child grows older. If a child is screened positive at their checkup, prompt referral is indicated for further psychological testing. During psychological testing, the child can be assessed for other disorders as well. Hearing, speech and occupational evaluations are also common during the diagnosis phase as these can cause similar symptoms and behaviors.
What can I do if I suspect my child has ASD?
Treatment for ASD is multifaceted utilizing medications in some cases but focus primarily on speech and occupational therapy. These modalities are used to improve communication and social skills. A newer intervention – Applied Behavioral Analysis has shown to be the most beneficial but it is not available in many areas. It has been shown to be the most effective intervention especially when started at the younger ages. Relationship Development Intervention is another approach that focuses on social skill and interaction and has been shown effective in all ages using everyday teachable moments. Early and intensive therapy is the goal of diagnosis and treatment. Links listed below are for the middle Georgia area.
INTERNET INFORMATION AND SUPPORT
https://www.centralgaautism.org/ (Support for parents in the Middle Georgia Area)
