Autism Spectrum Disorders

The incidence of childhood disintegrative disorder or CDD is far less common than autistic disorder. Also known as Heller’s syndrome, CDD is a condition in which children develop normally until age 2 to 4, then exhibit a severe loss of previously acquired skills. Children with CDD will show a decline in the ability to speak and have a conversation, have difficulty interacting with others, lose interest in imaginary play, games and activities, and exhibit a decline in motor skills like walking, climbing and grasping objects. A child with CDD who was previously toilet-trained will often have frequent accidents because of a decline in bladder and bowel control. Like other ASD, the cause is unknown and there is no cure. Treatment options include behavioral therapy to help children learn or relearn language, social and self-care skills. Severe behavior problems such as aggression and repetitive behavior may sometimes be controlled by medication for anxiety, depression, or anti-psychotic drugs. Anti-convulsive medications may help control epileptic seizures. The outcome for children with childhood disintegrative disorder is usually worse than for children with autism. These children generally need lifelong support with the activities of daily living.