Asperger syndrome is one of the pervasive developmental disorders resulting in social and behavioral problems. Autism is another condition within this category. Asperger syndrome is viewed by some scientists as a distinct disease; others see it as a less severe type of autism. Children with Asperger syndrome usually have normal intelligence and do not have the language problems typical of autism.
The cause of Asperger syndrome is unknown. Some experts believe a variety of factors may be responsible for the faulty brain development.
Symptoms usually become noticeable around 2-½ or 3 years of age. Symptoms may range from mild to severe and can include:
There are no tests for Asperger syndrome. The diagnosis is based on observations of the child's behavior. Neuropsychological and IQ tests may be given. Medical tests may be ordered to help rule out other conditions. Children and their families can benefit from early intervention. Knowing what is wrong also helps families understand why the child acts differently than other children.
There is no treatment to cure Asperger syndrome. Treatments aim to control symptoms and improve social skills. Patients often learn to function independently as adults. However, they usually continue to experience problems with social interaction. They also may develop mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety . Children with Asperger syndrome need love and understanding, as well as a structured schedule.
Therapies include:
Drugs to help control symptoms may include:
Behavior modification therapy and training can help children develop social skills. Learning how to make and keep friends is difficult for these children. As they grow up, many find the lack of friends troubling.
Caring for a child with Asperger syndrome can be very stressful. Counselors help parents learn how to manage the child's behavior. Suggestions include:
Children with Asperger syndrome usually have a normal IQ. but have special educational needs. They often can attend regular schools. Teachers should be informed of the child's needs. Children with Asperger's syndrome may be teased or bullied because they seem different.
RESOURCES:
Asperger Syndrome Coalition of the United States
http://www.asc-us.org/
Online Asperger Syndrome Information and Support
http://www.udel.edu/bkirby/asperger/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Autism Society Canada
http://www.autismsocietycanada.ca/index_e.html/
Online Asperger Syndrome Information and Support
http://www.udel.edu/bkirby/asperger/suppCAN.html/
References:
Asperger Syndrome Coalition of the United States website. Available at: http://www.asc-us.org .
Carpenter, LA, Sprate, EG, Macias, MM. Asperger syndrome. MedLink Neurology website. Available at: http://www.medlink.com . Accessed Feb 4, 2009.
Cashin A, Sci DA. Two terms-one meaning: the conundrum of contemporary nomenclature in autism. J Child Adolesc Psychiatr Nurs. 2006;19:137-144.
National Autistic Society website. Available at: http://www.nas.org.uk/ .
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke website. Available at: http://www.ninds.nih.gov/ .
National Organization for Rare Disorders website. Available at: http://www.rarediseases.org/ .
Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics .16th ed. Philadelphia, PA: WB Saunders Company; 2000.
Nass R, Ross G. Developmental Disabilities. In: Bradley WG, ed. Neurology in Clinical Practice. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Butterworth Heinemann Elsevier; 2008.
Online Asperger Syndrome Information and Support website. Available at: http://www.udel.edu/bkirby/asperger/ .
Last reviewed January 2009 by J. Thomas Megerian, MD, PhD, FAAP
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