Asperger's syndrome in adulthood.
BACKGROUND
Asperger's syndrome is one of the autism spectrum disorders. Affected individuals display considerably impaired capacity for social interaction, unusual special interests, and a tendency towards ritualized behavior.


METHODS
The etiology, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of Asperger's syndrome in adulthood are outlined on the basis of a selective literature review via Medline and information in relevant reference books. Furthermore, the authors report their personal experience at a special clinic for adults.


RESULTS
Asperger's syndrome in adulthood can be diagnosed by thorough anamnesis, heteroanamnesis-with emphasis on childhood-and painstaking clinical examination. The considerable psychosocial impairments affect the patients' professional, social, and private lives. The precise etiology is still unknown, but a multifactorial origin with genetic, neurobiological, and psychosocial components appears probable. Although no specific, empirically tested treatment concepts have yet been established, psychotherapeutic elements (structuring and directive interventions) seem to be helpful, together with pharmacotherapy-if indicated-in the presence of comorbidity.


CONCLUSIONS
Asperger's syndrome should be included in the differential diagnosis of adults who display the corresponding symptoms. The etiopathogenesis and treatment of Asperger's syndrome in adulthood should be further investigated.
Roy
Mandy
M
Klinik für Psychiatrie, Sozialpsychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Zentrum für Seelische Gesundheit, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, 30625 Hannover, Germany. roy.mandy@mh-hannover.de
Dillo
Wolfgang
W
Emrich
Hinderk M
HM
Ohlmeier
Martin D
MD
D000328:Adult; D020817:Asperger Syndrome / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D006801:Humans