Recent advances in autism spectrum disorders.
OBJECTIVE
This review article provides an overview of the most recent developments in the literature regarding autism spectrum disorders including epidemiology, etiology, assessment, and management/treatment.


METHODS
A review of the recent literature was conducted using Medline and the search term "Autism Spectrum Disorders."


RESULTS
Autism Spectrum Disorders are more common than previously believed (1 in 166), and etiology appears to be multifaceted including both heritable and non-heritable factors. State of the art treatment includes comprehensive medical monitoring as well as behavioral intervention.


CONCLUSIONS
Current and anticipated federal funding, policy changes, and large scale research projects provide promise for increasing knowledge about Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Charles
Jane M
JM
Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston 29425-5670, USA. charlesj@musc.edu
Carpenter
Laura A
LA
Jenner
Walter
W
Nicholas
Joyce S
JS
D020817:Asperger Syndrome / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D001321:Autistic Disorder / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D002648:Child; D002659:Child Development Disorders, Pervasive / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011379:Prognosis; D012307:Risk Factors; D012744:Sex Ratio