What is Autistic Disorder?Early Infantile Autism, Childhood Autism, or Kanner’s Autism. This condition occurs four times more frequently in boys than girls, but girls are more likely to show more severe mental retardation. Aproximately 2-5 cases occur per 10,000 individuals. This disorder is more common among siblings which may indicate a genetic cause. The onset of symptoms is before 3 years old. Markedly abnormal impairments occur in social interaction, communication skills and the use of restricted, repetitive and stereotyped patterns of behavior (stimming), interests and activities. This type of autism presents in various ways depending on the developmental level and chronological age of the individual. Therefore your child is unique in his manifestation of symptoms. The DSM-IV further outlines the features of this disorder. Approximately 75% of these children show mental retardation in the moderate range with an IQ from 35-50. Electroencephalograms (EEG) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may or may not be abnormal. No specific pattern of abnormalities has been identified. Seizures may develop especially during adolescence in approximately 25% of individuals. Generally, individuals with Autistic Disorder gradually improve with appropriate treatment usually in some areas more than other areas. However, adults continue to have significant problems in communication, social and behavioral areas.
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