Autism represents a spectrum of complex brain disorders resulting in social, behavioral, and language problems. People with autism have difficulty communicating and forming relationships. They may be preoccupied, engage in repetitive behaviors, and exhibit marked inflexibility. Autism occurs in about 1 out of 1,000 children. The rates may be higher than this.

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder. This means that problems in brain development cause autism. Scientists are searching for answers about what causes these development problems. Studies suggest:

• Autism seems to run in some families. Several genes may be involved.
• Problems during pregnancy or delivery may interfere with normal brain development.
• Something in the environment that a child is exposed to may be a factor.

These factors increase your chance of developing autism:

• Sex: male (Boys are four times more likely to have autism than girls.)
• Family history: siblings of a child with autism have a 3%-7% chance of being autistic.
• A number of other conditions are associated with autism, although the relationship between them is not clear:
  • Neurofibromatosis
  • Tuberous sclerosis
  • Fragile X syndrome
  • Phenylketonuria (PKU)
  • Möbius syndrome
  • Epilepsy
  • Herpes encephalitis
  • Cytomegalovirus
  • Problems during pregnancy or delivery
  • Contracting rubella during pregnancy (a risk for the child)

Autism first appears in children age three and younger. The severity of symptoms varies over a wide spectrum. Behaviors and abilities may differ from day to day; symptoms may decrease as the child grows older. Children with autism may exhibit a combination of abnormal behaviors.

Symptoms include:

• Avoiding social contact
• Having problems with language (loss of language)
• Using words incorrectly, changing the meaning of a common word
• Gesturing frequently
• Avoiding eye contact
• Having trouble with nonverbal communication
• Lacking interest in normal activities for that age
• Spending a lot of time alone
• Not playing imaginatively
• Not starting pretend games
• Not imitating others
• Having sensitivity to sound, smell, taste, sights, and touch
• Responding to stimulation in an abnormal way
• Not reacting to smiles in the manner expected
• Being hyperactive
• Being passive
• Having tantrums
• Being single-minded
• Being aggressive
• Hurting self (self-mutilation)
• Engaging in repetitive movement, such as rocking or flapping a hand
• Resisting change
• Forming odd attachments to objects
• Sniffing or licking of toys
• Not understanding other peoples' feelings and needs
• Having constipation and being a picky eater

Some people with autism suffer from other disorders as well, including:

• Seizures
• Mental retardation
• Genetic disorders, such as fragile X syndrome

Some people with autism have unusual abilities. For instance, they may memorize things or be able to play a musical instrument without lessons. Children with autism may show varying signs of cognitive impairment, but have normal intelligence. According to the Autism Information Center, children with autism may be very good at putting puzzles together or solving problems. But, they may have trouble in other areas, like talking or making friends.

Doctors who specialize in autism will observe the child's behavior, social contacts, and communication abilities. They will assess mental and social development and ask parents about the child's behavior. Some doctors ask parents to bring in videotapes of the child at home.

Tests may include:

• Neuropsychological tests
• Questionnaires and observation schedules
• Intelligence tests

Medical tests to rule out other conditions that cause similar symptoms may include:

• Blood tests
• Urine tests
• DNA testing
• Electroencephalogram (EEG) —a test that records the brain's activity by measuring electrical currents through the brain

There is no cure for autism. The severity of symptoms may decrease over the years. But, the condition lasts for life. Children with autism and their families may benefit from early intervention. Children with autism respond well to a structured, predictable schedule. With help, many children with autism learn to cope with their disabilities. Most need assistance and support throughout their lives. Others are able to work and live independently when they grow up.

Interventions to help children with autism include:

Programs designed to meet the child's special needs improve the odds of learning. Children with autism may have trouble with assignments, concentration, and anxiety . Teachers who understand the condition can build on the child's unique abilities. Programs should incorporate the child's interests. Some children do better in a small-group setting. Others do well in regular classrooms with special support. Vocational training can help prepare young adults for a job.

Speech, physical, and occupational therapies may improve speech and activities. Children with autism need help developing social skills.

Professional support helps a family cope with caring for a child with autism. Counselors help parents learn how to manage behaviors. Furthermore, caring for a child with autism can be exhausting and frustrating. Arranging occasional respite care is essential.

Although there are no drugs to treat autism, several drugs are used to help manage symptoms. For example, medicine for anxiety and depression can help treat obsessive and aggressive behaviors.