Autism
Autism: Neurodevelopmental disorder of early childhood with characteristics including impaired social and communication skills, repetitive and stereotyped activities and interests, especially inanimate objects.
Autistic symptoms are usually identified in children less than three years old, and is more common in male children with a ratio of 4:1, male to female.
Autism is estimated to have a prevalence of 1/150 to 1/500 children.
Autism has no known cause but there is higher risk among siblings. There is no scientific evidence that proves vaccines or thimerosal can cause autism.
Autism symptoms include
• Loss of social skills
• Poor eye contact
• Seem to not know how to play with toys
• Does not smile
• Not comforted by caregiver when injured or upset
• Does not respond to name
• May excessively line up toys or objects
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:
If you suspect autism, then have your child evaluated by a qualified physician as soon as possible. The diagnosis can be confirmed by specific testing. Lead poisoning and PKU ( a metabolic disorder) can mimic autism.
March 19, 2009
Ref
1. MMWR Morb Mortal Weekly Re 2007; 56:12
2. Arch Gen Psychiatry 2005;62: 1266-1272
3. Pediatrics 2001;107: 1221-1226
Posted on March 20, 2009
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