Autism
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder? |
Causes |
Symptoms |
Evaluations |
Treatment |
Contact us What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Autism is a neurological disorder in which the brain does not function normally. It is a lifelong disability that begins before age 3 and tends to have a disproportional affect on boys of all races and ethnicities. Autism impacts a range of functions, including communication and socialization.
Autism spectrum disorders vary from mild to severe.
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What Causes Autism Spectrum Disorder?
There is ongoing research to discover the cause or causes of autism. Current research links autism to biological and neurological differences in the brain.
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Symptoms
- Atypical language development
- Lack of language development
- Failure to respond to certain sounds
- Hypersensitive reaction to light, sound, touch, smell, taste, and/or movement
- Repetitive and isolated play (does not play with others)
- Abnormal activity (over- or underactive)
- Aggression or frequent tantrums
- Reliance on routines; does not like change
- Inability to use pointing to communicate
- Absent or minimal eye contact
- An absence of gestures for communication
- Flapping hands, spinning, or other repetitive behaviors
- Unusual ability to perform specific tasks (music, art, reading)
Clinical Trial / Research Study:
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What to Expect from a Speech-Language Evaluation
Speech and language skills are evaluated using standardized tests, parent reports, and clinical observation of play and communication activities. Social interaction, behavior, and play skills are also evaluated. If, as a result of the evaluation, the speech-language pathologist suspects autism, an additional referral for further assessment may be made to the Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics.
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Treatment
Autism is treated by speech-language pathologists in collaboration with other specialists, including occupational therapists. Early therapy focuses on helping the child to learn ways of communicating through signing, pictures, gestures, words, and use of augmentative devices. Because brain changes can occur more easily in young children, early diagnosis and treatment improves prognosis. Consistent therapy and frequent therapeutic practice between sessions is needed to stimulate the brain to form new connections and replace impaired systems.
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When to call the doctor
If your child has been diagnosed with Autism or a Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD) and their speech is a concern to you, contact the Speech Pathology Department at Cincinnati Children's at 513-636-4341. Ask to speak to a Speech Pathologist on the Autism Team or e-mail speech@cchmc.org.
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Why Cincinnati Children's?
As a national leader in pediatric speech pathology, Cincinnati Children's has a program for the treatment of autism. This program is staffed by speech-language pathologists who have undergone specific specialty training. We welcome referrals from primary care providers and specialty physicians.
Contact us
For additional information on this or any Health Topic, please call the Family Resource Center, 513-636-7606, or your pediatrician.
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Written 11/06; Rev. 10/07
