Medical researchers are exploring different
explanations
for the various forms of autism.
Although one specific cause of autism is not known, current research
links autism
to
biological or neurological differences in the brain. MRI (
Magnetic
Resonance Imaging)
and PET (Positron Emission Tomography) scans show
abnormalities in the structure of
the
brain, with significant differences within the
cerebellum, including the size and number
of
Purkinje
cells. In some families
there appears to be a pattern of autism or related
disabilities,
which
suggests there may be a
genetic basis to the disorder, although at this time no
one
gene has
been directly linked to autism.
Several older theories about the cause of autism
have been now proven false. Autism is
not a mental illness. Children with autism are not unruly kids, who choose not to
behave.
Autism is not caused by bad parenting. Furthermore, no known psychological factors
in the
development of the child have been shown to cause autism.
There are no medical tests for diagnosing autism.
An accurate diagnosis must be based
on
observations of the child's communication, behavior and developmental levels. However,
because many of the behaviors associated with autism are shared by other disorders,
a
doctor may complete various medical tests to rule out other possible causes.
Diagnosis is difficult for a practitioner with
limited training or exposure to autism, since
the characteristics of the disorder vary so much.
Locating a medical specialist or a
diagnostician
who has experience with autism is most important. Ideally a child should
be evaluated
by
a multidisciplinary team which may include a neurologist, psychologist,
developmental pediatrician, speech/language therapist, learning consultant or other
professionals
knowledgeable about autism. Several diagnostic tools have been developed
over the
past
few years to help professionals make an accurate autism diagnosis:
CHAT - Checklist for
Autism in Toddlers CARS - Childhood Autism Rating Scale
PIA - Parent
Interviews for Autism
GARS - Gilliam Autism Rating Scale
BRIAC - Behavior Rating Instrument for Autistic and other Atypical Children
A brief observation in a single setting cannot
present a true picture of an individual's
abilities and behaviors. At first glance, the person with autism may appear to have
mental retardation, a behavior disorder, or even problems with hearing. However,
it is important also to distinguish autism from other conditions, since an accurate
diagnosis can provide the basis for building an appropriate and effective educational
and treatment program.
From the Autism Society of America's web
page [http://www.autism-society.org/]
entitled
'What is Autism?" developed and maintained on behalf of the ASA by Catriona
Johnson & Ben Dorman.
Autism Society of America, 7910 Woodmont Ave, Suite
650, Bethesda, MD 20814-3015
tel: 1-800-3AUTISM (301) 657-0881; fax: (301) 657-0869.
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