Diagnosis, treatment, and neurobiology of autism in children.
Autism is a developmental neuropsychiatric disorder defined by the presence of social and communicative deficits, restricted and repetitive behaviors and interests, and a characteristic course. Research suggests that hereditary factors play a principal role in the etiology of most cases. A phenotype broader than autism, including milder social and language-based cognitive deficits, appears to be inherited. Although the pathogenesis is unknown, neurobiologic mechanisms clearly underlie the disorder. Neuropathologic studies have demonstrated abnormalities in limbic structures, the cerebellum, and the cortex. New advances in behavioral therapies and pharmacologic treatment are important components of successful multidisciplinary treatment of this disorder.
Lainhart
J E
JE
University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, USA.
Piven
J
J
D000818:Animals; D001321:Autistic Disorder / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D002648:Child; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D011379:Prognosis