Autism. Autism Spectrum Disorder
"The possibility of accessing educational, pedagogical and support services has a beneficial effect, since even children with more severe autism have the capacity to learn some adaptive skills".
DR. ROCÍO SÁNCHEZ-CARPINTERO ABAD
DIRECTOR. NEUROPEDIATRICS UNIT
What is ASD?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects the way a person perceives and relates to the world.
It is characterized by difficulties in communication and social interaction, as well as restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior, interests or activities.
The term "spectrum" reflects the wide variability in the presentation and severity of symptoms.
What are the symptoms of autism?
Signs of ASD usually manifest in the first 24 months of life, although they can vary significantly among individuals.
Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Difficulties in social interaction: such as avoiding eye contact, not responding to name calling, preferring to play alone, or showing some indifference toward playing with other children.
- Communication problems: ranging from the absence of language to difficulty initiating or maintaining a conversation, use of repetitive language (echolalia) or literal interpretation of language.
- Repetitive behaviors or restricted interests: such as repetitive movements (hand flapping, rocking), strict adherence to routines or rituals, and intense fixation on specific topics or objects.
- Unusual reactions to sensory stimuli: such as hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity to sounds, lights, textures or tastes.
Do you have any of these symptoms?
Your child may have an autistic disorder
What are the causes of autism?
The exact causes of ASD are not fully understood, but it is recognized that multiple factors contribute to its development:
- Genetics: Numerous genetic variations associated with ASD have been identified.
- Neurobiological: Neuroimaging studies have shown differences in brain structure and function in people with ASD, including alterations in areas related to communication and social interaction. However, they are only detectable if large groups of homogeneous patients are looked at. Neuroimaging is not useful for individual diagnosis, as it is usually normal.
- Environmental: Prenatal and perinatal factors, such as infections during pregnancy or birth complications, may increase the risk of developing ASD, although they are not the only causative factor.
What is the prognosis of autism?
Children with autism often get worse when they have medical illnesses or there is environmental stress. The possibility of accessing educational, pedagogical and support services has a beneficial effect, since even children with more severe autism have the capacity to learn some adaptive skills.
The prognosis for ASD varies widely depending on factors such as severity of symptoms, presence of intellectual disability, language development, and early intervention. Although ASD is a lifelong condition, many individuals can improve significantly with appropriate support.
Some indicators of improved prognosis include:
- Early diagnosis and intervention: early detection and treatment at earlier ages are associated with better developmental outcomes.
- Functional language development before age 5.
- IQ within the average range or above.
- Adaptive social skills.
It is important to note that each person with ASD is unique, and many can lead a full and satisfying life with the right support.
How is autism diagnosed?
The diagnosis of ASD is based on observation of the child's behavior and development, and should be made by specialized professionals such as neuropediatricians, child psychiatrists or clinical psychologists.
Criteria established in international diagnostic manuals, such as the DSM-5, are used, which require the presence of symptoms in the areas of social interaction, communication and repetitive behaviors for the evaluation of which age must be taken into account.
In addition, complementary evaluations such as auditory, visual, neurological and molecular biology tests are recommended to rule out other medical conditions.
How is autism treated?
There is no cure for ASD, but various interventions can significantly improve the quality of life of people with this condition:
- Behavioral therapies: such as Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), which helps develop social, communication and academic skills.
- Speech and occupational therapies: to improve communication and daily living skills and sensory sensitivity.
- Specialized educational interventions: structured programs tailored to individual needs.
- Family support and psychoeducation: to train caregivers in effective coping strategies and support.
- Medication: in some cases drugs may be used to treat associated symptoms such as anxiety, hyperactivity or irritability.
The treatment approach should be individualized, considering each person's specific strengths and needs.
In short, Autism Spectrum Disorder is a complex and diverse condition that requires understanding, acceptance, intervention and support. With appropriate interventions and an inclusive environment, people with ASD can reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to society.
Where do we treat it?
IN NAVARRE AND MADRID
The Neuropediatrics Unit
of the Clínica Universidad de Navarra
The Unit is part of the Department of Pediatrics and works closely with specialists from other departments to provide integrated care for children and adolescents with risk factors or diseases affecting the central nervous system and neuromuscular system.
It is made up of a team of neuropediatric specialists and psychopedagogues.
Diseases we treat
- Early development and its deviations.
- Motor control disorders.
- Global developmental disorders. Autism.
- Epilepsy in children. Dravet syndrome.
- Sleep disorders.
- Attention deficit and hyperactivity disorders. ADHD.
Why at the Clinica?
- Teamwork to offer a valuation in 24 hours.
- Most experienced nationally in Dravet Syndrome.
Our team of professionals
