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Autism Spectrum Disorders: How Parents Can Help Their Children

Moms and dads are usually the first to notice unusual behaviors in their youngster. In some cases, the baby seemed “different” from birth, unresponsive to others or focusing intently on one item for long periods of time. The first signs of an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can also appear in kids who seem to have been developing normally. When an engaging, babbling toddler suddenly becomes silent, withdrawn, self-abusive, or indifferent to social overtures, something is wrong. Research has shown that moms and dads are usually correct about noticing developmental problems, although they may not realize the specific nature or degree of the problem.

Autism spectrum disorders can often be reliably detected by the age of 3 years, and in some cases as early as 18 months.2 Studies suggest that many kids eventually may be accurately identified by the age of 1 year or even younger. The appearance of any of the warning signs of Autism Spectrum Disorders is reason to have a youngster evaluated by a professional specializing in these disorders.

The autism spectrum disorders range from a severe form, called autistic disorder, to a milder form, high-functioning autism or Aspergers. If a youngster has symptoms of either of these disorders, but does not meet the specific criteria for either, the diagnosis is called pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS). Other rare, very severe disorders that are included in the autism spectrum disorders are Rett syndrome and childhood disintegrative disorder.

The autism spectrum disorders are more common in the pediatric population than are some better known disorders such as diabetes, spinal bifida, or Down syndrome.2 A recent study of a U.S. metropolitan area estimated that 3.4 of every 1,000 kids 3-10 years old had autism.3 The earlier the disorder is diagnosed, the sooner the youngster can be helped through treatment interventions. Doctors, family physicians, daycare providers, educators, and moms and dads may initially dismiss signs of Autism Spectrum Disorders, optimistically thinking the youngster is just a little slow and will “catch up.”

All kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders demonstrate deficits as follows:
  • repetitive behaviors or interests
  • social interaction
  • unusual responses to sensory experiences (e.g., certain sounds or the way objects look)
  • verbal and nonverbal communication

Each of these symptoms runs the gamut from mild to severe. They will present in each individual youngster differently. For instance, a youngster may have little trouble learning to read but exhibit extremely poor social interaction. Each youngster will display communication, social, and behavioral patterns that are individual but fit into the overall diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders do not follow the typical patterns of child development. In some kids, hints of future problems may be apparent from birth. In most cases, the problems in communication and social skills become more noticeable as the youngster lags further behind other kids the same age. Some other kids start off well enough. Oftentimes between 12 and 36 months old, the differences in the way they react to parents and other unusual behaviors become apparent. Some moms and dads report the change as being sudden, and that their kids start to reject others, act strangely, and lose language and social skills they had previously acquired. In other cases, there is a plateau, or leveling, of progress so that the difference between the youngster with autism and other kids the same age becomes more noticeable.

Possible Indicators of Autism Spectrum Disorders—
  • Does not babble, point, or make meaningful gestures by 1 year of age
  • Does not combine two words by 2 years
  • Does not respond to name
  • Does not speak one word by 16 months
  • Loses language or social skills

Other Indicators—
  • At times seems to be hearing impaired
  • Doesn't seem to know how to play with toys
  • Doesn't smile
  • Excessively lines up toys or other objects
  • Is attached to one particular toy or object
  • Poor eye contact

Social Symptoms—

From the start, typically developing infants are social beings. Early in life, they gaze at others, turn toward voices, grasp a finger, and even smile. In contrast, most kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders seem to have tremendous difficulty learning to engage in the give-and-take of everyday human interaction. Even in the first few months of life, many do not interact - and they avoid eye contact. They seem indifferent to others, and often seem to prefer being alone. They may resist attention or passively accept hugs and cuddling. Later, they seldom seek comfort or respond to moms and dads' displays of anger or affection in a typical way. Research has suggested that although kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders are attached to their moms and dads, their expression of this attachment is unusual and difficult to “read.” To moms and dads, it may seem as if their youngster is not attached at all. Parents who looked forward to the joys of cuddling, teaching, and playing with their youngster may feel crushed by this lack of the expected and typical attachment behavior.

Kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders also are slower in learning to interpret what others are thinking and feeling. Subtle social cues—whether a smile, a wink, or a grimace—may have little meaning. To a youngster who misses these cues, a statement like “come here” always means the same thing, whether the speaker is smiling and extending her arms for a hug, or frowning and planting her fists on her hips. Without the ability to interpret gestures and facial expressions, the social world may seem bewildering. To compound the problem, children with Autism Spectrum Disorders have difficulty seeing things from another person's perspective. Most 3-year-olds understand that others have different information, feelings, and goals than they have. A child with an Autism Spectrum Disorder may lack such understanding. This inability leaves them unable to predict or understand other's actions.

Although not universal, it is common for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders also to have difficulty regulating their emotions. This can take the form of “immature” behavior such as crying in class or verbal outbursts that seem inappropriate to those around them. The child with an Autism Spectrum Disorder might also be disruptive and physically aggressive at times, making social relationships still more difficult. They have a tendency to “lose control,” particularly when they're in a strange or overwhelming environment, or when angry and frustrated. They may at times break things, attack others, or hurt themselves. In their frustration, some bang their heads, pull their hair, or bite their arms.

Communication Difficulties—

By age 3, most kids have passed predictable milestones on the path to learning language (one of the earliest is babbling). By the first birthday, a typical toddler says words, turns when he hears his name, points when he wants a toy, and when offered something distasteful, makes it clear that the answer is “no.”

Some kids diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders remain mute throughout their lives. Some infants who later show signs of Autism Spectrum Disorders coo and babble during the first few months of life, but they soon stop. Others may be delayed, developing language as late as age 5 to 9. Some kids may learn to use communication systems such as pictures or sign language.

Those who do speak often use language in unusual ways. They seem unable to combine words into meaningful sentences. Some speak only single words, while others repeat the same phrase over and over. Some kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders parrot what they hear, a condition called echolalia. Although many kids with no Autism Spectrum Disorders go through a stage where they repeat what they hear, it normally passes by the time they are 3.

Some kids that are only mildly affected may exhibit slight delays in language, or even seem to have precocious language and unusually large vocabularies, but have great difficulty in sustaining a conversation. The “give and take” of normal conversation is hard for them, although they often carry on a monologue on a favorite subject, giving no one else an opportunity to comment. Another difficulty is often the inability to understand body language, tone of voice, or “phrases of speech.” They might interpret a sarcastic expression such as “Oh, that's just great” as meaning it really IS great.

While it can be hard to understand what kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders are saying, their body language is also difficult to understand. Facial expressions, movements, and gestures rarely match what they are saying. Also, their tone of voice fails to reflect their feelings. A high-pitched, sing-song, or flat, robot-like voice is common. Some kids with relatively good language skills speak like little grown-ups, failing to pick up on the “kid-speak” that is common in their peer-group.

Without meaningful gestures or the language to ask for things, children with Autism Spectrum Disorders are at a loss to let others know what they need. As a result, they may simply scream or grab what they want. Until they are taught better ways to express their needs, kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders do whatever they can to get through to others. As these children grow up, they can become increasingly aware of their difficulties in understanding others and in being understood. As a result they may become anxious or depressed.

Repetitive Behaviors—

Although kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders usually appear physically normal and have good muscle control, odd repetitive motions may set them off from other kids. These behaviors might be extreme and highly apparent or more subtle. Some spend a lot of time repeatedly flapping their arms or walking on their toes. Some suddenly freeze in position.

As kids, they might spend hours lining up their cars and trains in a certain way, rather than using them for pretend play. If someone accidentally moves one of the toys, the youngster may be tremendously upset. Kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders need - and demand - absolute consistency in their environment. A slight change in any routine (e.g., in mealtimes, dressing, taking a bath, going to school at a certain time and by the same route, etc.) can be extremely disturbing. Perhaps order and sameness lend some stability in a world of confusion.

Repetitive behavior sometimes takes the form of a persistent, intense preoccupation. For example, the youngster might be obsessed with learning all about vacuum cleaners, train schedules, or lighthouses. Often there is great interest in numbers, symbols, or science topics.

Sensory Problems—

When kid’s perceptions are accurate, they can learn from what they see, feel, or hear. On the other hand, if sensory information is faulty, the youngster's experiences of the world can be confusing. Many kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders are highly attuned - or even painfully sensitive - to certain sounds, textures, tastes, and smells. Some kids find the feel of clothes touching their skin almost unbearable. Some sounds (e.g., vacuum cleaner, ringing telephone, sudden storm, sound of waves lapping the shoreline, etc.) may cause these kids to cover their ears and scream. In Autism Spectrum Disorders, the brain seems unable to balance the senses appropriately. Some kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders are oblivious to extreme cold or pain. The youngster may fall and break an arm, yet never cry. Another may bash his head against a wall and not wince, but a light touch may make the youngster scream with alarm.

The Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorders—

Although there are many concerns about labeling a youngster with an Autism Spectrum Disorder, the earlier the diagnosis is made, the earlier needed interventions can begin. Evidence over the last 15 years indicates that intensive early intervention in optimal educational settings for at least 2 years during the preschool years results in improved outcomes in most young kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders.2

In evaluating a youngster, clinicians rely on behavioral characteristics to make a diagnosis. Some of the characteristic behaviors of Autism Spectrum Disorders may be apparent in the first few months of a youngster's life, or they may appear at any time during the early years. For the diagnosis, problems in at least one of the areas of communication, socialization, or restricted behavior must be present before the age of 3. The diagnosis requires a two-stage process. The first stage involves developmental screening during check-ups; the second stage entails a comprehensive evaluation by a multidisciplinary team.9

Screening—

A check-up should include a developmental screening test. If your youngster's doctor does not routinely check your youngster with such a test, ask that it be done. Your own observations and concerns about your youngster's development will be essential in helping to screen him or her.9 Reviewing family videotapes, photos, and baby albums can help moms and dads remember when each behavior was first noticed and when the youngster reached certain developmental milestones.

Several screening instruments have been developed to quickly gather information about a youngster's social and communicative development within medical settings. Among them are:
  • Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ) (for kids 4 years of age and older)
  • Screening Tool for Autism in Two-Year-Olds (STAT)
  • Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT)
  • Checklist of Autism in Toddlers (CHAT)

Some screening instruments rely solely on parent responses to a questionnaire, and some rely on a combination of parent report and observation. Key items on these instruments that appear to differentiate kids with autism from other groups before the age of 2 include pointing and pretend play. Screening instruments do not provide individual diagnosis, but serve to assess the need for referral for possible diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorders. These screening methods may not identify kids with mild Autism Spectrum Disorders, such as those with high-functioning autism or Aspergers.

During the last few years, screening instruments have been devised to screen for Aspergers and higher functioning autism. The Autism Spectrum Screening Questionnaire (ASSQ),14 the Australian Scale for Asperger's Syndrome,15 and the most recent, the Childhood Aspergers Test (CAST),16 are some of the instruments that are reliable for identification of school-age kids with Aspergers or higher functioning autism. These tools concentrate on social and behavioral impairments in kids without significant language delay.

If, following the screening process or during a routine check-up, your youngster's doctor sees any of the possible indicators of Autism Spectrum Disorders, further evaluation is indicated.

Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation—

The second stage of diagnosis must be comprehensive in order to accurately rule in or rule out an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other developmental problem. This evaluation may be done by a multidisciplinary team that includes a psychologist, a neurologist, a psychiatrist, a speech therapist, or other professionals who diagnose kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Because Autism Spectrum Disorders are complex disorders and may involve other neurological or genetic problems, a comprehensive evaluation should entail neurologic and genetic assessment, along with in-depth cognitive and language testing.9 In addition, measures developed specifically for diagnosing autism are often used. These include the Autism Diagnosis Interview-Revised (ADI-R)17 and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS-G).18The ADI-R is a structured interview that contains over 100 items and is conducted with a caregiver. It consists of four main factors—the youngster's communication, social interaction, repetitive behaviors, and age-of-onset symptoms. The ADOS-G is an observational measure used to “press” for socio-communicative behaviors that are often delayed, abnormal, or absent in kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Still another instrument often used by professionals is the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS).19 It aids in evaluating the youngster's body movements, adaptation to change, listening response, verbal communication, and relationship to individuals. It is suitable for use with kids over 2 years of age. The examiner observes the youngster and also obtains relevant information from the moms and dads. The youngster's behavior is rated on a scale based on deviation from the typical behavior of kids of the same age.

Two other tests that should be used to assess any youngster with a developmental delay are a formal audiologic hearing evaluation and a lead screening. Although some hearing loss can co-occur with Autism Spectrum Disorders, some kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders may be incorrectly thought to have such a loss. In addition, if the youngster has suffered from an ear infection, transient hearing loss can occur. Lead screening is essential for kids who remain for a long period of time in the oral-motor stage in which they put any and everything into their mouths. Kids with an autistic disorder usually have elevated blood lead levels.9

Customarily, an expert diagnostic team has the responsibility of thoroughly evaluating the youngster, assessing the youngster's unique strengths and weaknesses, and determining a formal diagnosis. The team will then meet with the moms and dads to explain the results of the evaluation.

Although moms and dads may have been aware that something was not “quite right” with their youngster, when the diagnosis is given, it can be a devastating blow to some. At such a time, it is hard to stay focused on asking questions. But while members of the evaluation team are together is the best opportunity, moms and dads will have to ask questions and get recommendations on what further steps they should take for their youngster. Learning as much as possible at this meeting is very important, but it is helpful to leave this meeting with the name or names of professionals who can be contacted if moms and dads have further questions.

Available Aids—

When your youngster has been evaluated and diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder, you may feel inadequate to help your youngster develop to the fullest extent of his or her ability. As you begin to look at treatment options and at the types of aid available, you will find out that there is help for you. It is going to be difficult to learn and remember everything you need to know about the resources that will be most helpful. Write down everything. If you keep a notebook, you will have a foolproof method of recalling information. Keep a record of the doctors' reports and the evaluation your youngster has been given so that his or her eligibility for special programs will be documented. Learn everything you can about special programs for your youngster; the more you know, the more effectively you can advocate.

For every youngster eligible for special programs, each state guarantees special education and related services. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a Federally mandated program that assures a free and appropriate public education for kids with diagnosed learning deficits. Usually kids are placed in public schools and the school district pays for all necessary services. These will include, as needed, services by a speech therapist, occupational therapist, school psychologist, social worker, school nurse, or aide.

By law, the public schools must prepare and carry out a set of instruction goals, or specific skills, for every youngster in a special education program. The list of skills is known as the youngster's Individualized Education Program (IEP). The IEP is an agreement between the school and the family on the youngster's goals. When your youngster's IEP is developed, you will be asked to attend the meeting. There will be several individuals at this meeting, including a special education teacher, a representative of the public schools who is knowledgeable about the program, other individuals invited by the school or by you (you may want to bring a relative, a youngster care provider, or a supportive close friend who knows your youngster well). Moms and dads play an important part in creating the program, as they know their youngster and his or her needs best. Once your youngster's IEP is developed, a meeting is scheduled once a year to review your youngster's progress and to make any alterations to reflect his or her changing needs.

If your youngster is under 3 years of age and has special needs, he or she should be eligible for an early intervention program. This program is available in every U.S. state. Each state decides which agency will be the lead agency in the early intervention program. The early intervention services are provided by workers qualified to care for toddlers with disabilities and are usually in the youngster's home or a place familiar to the youngster. The services provided are written into an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) that is reviewed at least once every 6 months. The plan will describe services that will be provided to the youngster, but will also describe services for moms and dads to help them in daily activities with their youngster and for siblings to help them adjust to having a brother or sister with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Treatment Options—

There is no single best treatment package for all kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders. One point that most professionals agree on is that early intervention is important; another is that most children with Autism Spectrum Disorders respond well to highly structured, specialized programs.

Before you make decisions on your youngster's treatment, you will want to gather information about the various options available. Learn as much as you can, look at all the options, and make your decision on your youngster's treatment based on your youngster's needs. You may want to visit public schools in your area to see the type of program they offer to special needs kids.

Guidelines used by the Autism Society of America include the following questions moms and dads can ask about potential treatments:
  • Are there assessment procedures specified?
  • Are there predictable daily schedules and routines?
  • Do staff members have training and experience in working with kids and teens with autism?
  • Has the treatment been validated scientifically?
  • How are activities planned and organized?
  • How is progress measured? Will my youngster's behavior be closely observed and recorded?
  • How many kids have gone on to placement in a regular school and how have they performed?
  • How much individual attention will my youngster receive?
  • How successful has the program been for other kids?
  • How will failure of the treatment affect my youngster and family?
  • How will the treatment be integrated into my youngster's current program? Do not become so infatuated with a given treatment that functional curriculum, vocational life, and social skills are ignored.
  • Is the environment designed to minimize distractions?
  • What is the cost, time commitment, and location of the program?
  • Will my youngster be given tasks and rewards that are personally motivating?
  • Will the program prepare me to continue the therapy at home?
  • Will the treatment result in harm to my youngster?


Among the many methods available for treatment and education of children with autism, applied behavior analysis (ABA) has become widely accepted as an effective treatment. Thirty years of research demonstrated the efficacy of applied behavioral methods in reducing inappropriate behavior and in increasing communication, learning, and appropriate social behavior.20 The basic research done by Ivar Lovaas and his colleagues at the University of California, Los Angeles, calling for an intensive, one-on-one youngster-teacher interaction for 40 hours a week, laid a foundation for other educators and researchers in the search for further effective early interventions to help those with Autism Spectrum Disorders attain their potential. The goal of behavioral management is to reinforce desirable behaviors and reduce undesirable ones.21, 22

An effective treatment program will:
  • actively engage the youngster's attention in highly structured activities
  • build on the youngster's interests
  • offer a predictable schedule
  • provide regular reinforcement of behavior
  • teach tasks as a series of simple steps

Parental involvement has emerged as a major factor in treatment success. Moms and dads work with educators and therapists to identify the behaviors to be changed and the skills to be taught. Recognizing that parents are the youngster's earliest educators, more programs are beginning to train moms and dads to continue the therapy at home.

As soon as a youngster's disorder has been identified, instruction should begin. Effective programs will teach early communication and social interaction skills. In kids younger than 3 years, appropriate interventions usually take place in the home or a child care center. These interventions target specific deficits in:

• attention
• compliance
• imitation
• initiative of interaction
• language
• learning
• motivation

Included are behavioral methods, communication, occupational and physical therapy along with social play interventions. Often the day will begin with a physical activity to help develop coordination and body awareness. The kids string beads, piece puzzles together, paint, and participate in other motor skills activities. At snack time the teacher encourages social interaction and models how to use language to ask for more juice. The kids learn by doing. Working with the kids are students, behavioral therapists, and moms and dads who have received extensive training. In teaching the kids, positive reinforcement is used.23

Kids older than 3 years usually have school-based, individualized, special education. The youngster may be in a segregated class with other autistic kids or in an integrated class with kids without disabilities for at least part of the day. Different localities may use differing methods but all should provide a structure that will help the kids learn social skills and functional communication. In these programs, educators often involve the moms and dads, giving useful advice in how to help their youngster use the skills or behaviors learned at school when they are at home.24

In elementary school, the youngster should receive help in any skill area that is delayed and, at the same time, be encouraged to grow in his or her areas of strength. Ideally, the curriculum should be adapted to the youngster's needs. Many schools today have an inclusion program in which the youngster is in a regular classroom for most of the day, with special instruction for a part of the day. This instruction should include such skills as learning how to act in social situations and in making friends. Although higher-functioning kids may be able to handle academic work, they too need help to organize tasks and avoid distractions.

During middle and high school years, instruction will begin to address such practical matters as work, community living, and recreational activities. This should include work experience, using public transportation, and learning skills that will be important in community living.25

All through your youngster's school years, you will want to be an active participant in his or her education program. Collaboration between moms and dads and educators is essential in evaluating your youngster's progress.

The Teen Years—

Adolescence is a time of stress and confusion – and it is no less so for teenagers with some form of autism. Like all kids, they need help in dealing with their budding sexuality. While some behaviors improve during the teenage years, some get worse. Increased autistic or aggressive behavior may be one way some teens express their newfound tension and confusion.

The teenage years are also a time when teenagers become more socially sensitive. At the age that most teens are concerned with acne, popularity, grades, and dates, teens with some form of autism may become painfully aware that they are different from their friends. They may notice that they lack friends. And unlike their schoolmates, they aren't dating or planning for a career. For some, the sadness that comes with such realization motivates them to learn new behaviors and acquire better social skills.

Interventions—

In an effort to do everything possible to help their kids, many moms and dads continually seek new treatments. Some treatments are developed by reputable therapists or by moms and dads of a youngster with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. Although an unproven treatment may help one youngster, it may not prove beneficial to another. To be accepted as a proven treatment, the treatment should undergo clinical trials, preferably randomized, double-blind trials that would allow for a comparison between treatment and no treatment.

Dietary interventions are based on the idea that 1) food allergies cause symptoms of autism, and 2) an insufficiency of a specific vitamin or mineral may cause some autistic symptoms. If moms and dads decide to try for a given period of time a special diet, they should be sure that the youngster's nutritional status is measured carefully.

A diet that some moms and dads have found was helpful to their autistic youngster is a gluten-free, casein-free diet. Gluten is a casein-like substance that is found in the seeds of various cereal plants—wheat, oat, rye, and barley. Casein is the principal protein in milk. Since gluten and milk are found in many of the foods we eat, following a gluten-free, casein-free diet is difficult.

A supplement that some moms and dads feel is beneficial for an autistic youngster is Vitamin B6, taken with magnesium (which makes the vitamin effective). The result of research studies is mixed; some kids respond positively, some negatively, some not at all or very little.5

In the search for treatment for autism, there has been discussion in the last few years about the use of secretin, a substance approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for a single dose normally given to aid in diagnosis of a gastrointestinal problem. Anecdotal reports have shown improvement in autism symptoms, including sleep patterns, eye contact, language skills, and alertness. Several clinical trials conducted in the last few years have found no significant improvements in symptoms between patients who received secretin and those who received a placebo.26

Medications are often used to treat behavioral problems, such as aggression, self-injurious behavior, and severe tantrums that keep the child with an Autism Spectrum Disorder from functioning more effectively at home or school. The medications used are those that have been developed to treat similar symptoms in other disorders. Many of these medications are prescribed “off-label.” This means they have not been officially approved by the FDA for use in kids, but the doctor prescribes the medications if he or she feels they are appropriate for your youngster. Further research needs to be done to ensure not only the efficacy but the safety of psychotropic agents used in the treatment of kids and teens.

On October 6, 2006 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved risperidone (generic name) or Risperdal (brand name) for the symptomatic treatment of irritability in autistic kids and teens ages 5 to 16. The approval is the first for the use of a drug to treat behaviors associated with autism in kids. These behaviors are included under the general heading of irritability, and include aggression, deliberate self-injury and temper tantrums.

Olanzapine (Zyprexa) and other antipsychotic medications are used "off-label" for the treatment of aggression and other serious behavioral disturbances in kids, including kids with autism. Off-label means a doctor will prescribe a medication to treat a disorder or in an age group that is not included among those approved by the FDA. Other medications are used to address symptoms or other disorders in kids with autism. Fluoxetine (Prozac) and sertraline (Zoloft) are approved by the FDA for kids age 7 and older with obsessive-compulsive disorder. Fluoxetine is also approved for kids age 8 and older for the treatment of depression.

Fluoxetine and sertraline are antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Despite the relative safety and popularity of SSRIs and other antidepressants, some studies have suggested that they may have unintentional effects on some individuals, especially teens and young grown-ups. In 2004, after a thorough review of data, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) adopted a "black box" warning label on all antidepressant medications to alert the public about the potential increased risk of suicidal thinking or attempts in kids and teens taking antidepressants. In 2007, the agency extended the warning to include young grown-ups up to age 25. A "black box" warning is the most serious type of warning on prescription drug labeling. The warning emphasizes that patients of all ages should be closely monitored, especially during the initial weeks of treatment, for any worsening depression, suicidal thinking or behavior, or any unusual changes in behavior such as sleeplessness, agitation, or withdrawal from normal social situations.

A youngster with an Autism Spectrum Disorder may not respond in the same way to medications as typically developing kids. It is important that moms and dads work with a doctor who has experience with kids with autism. A youngster should be monitored closely while taking a medication. The doctor will prescribe the lowest dose possible to be effective. Ask the doctor about any side effects the medication may have and keep a record of how your youngster responds to the medication. It will be helpful to read the “patient insert” that comes with your youngster's medication. Some individuals keep the patient inserts in a small notebook to be used as a reference. This is most useful when several medications are prescribed.

• Seizures. Seizures are found in one in four persons with Autism Spectrum Disorders, most often in those who have low IQ or are mute. They are treated with one or more of the anticonvulsants. These include such medications as carbamazepine (Tegretol®), lamotrigine (Lamictal®), topiramate (Topamax®), and valproic acid (Depakote®). The level of the medication in the blood should be monitored carefully and adjusted so that the least amount possible is used to be effective. Although medication usually reduces the number of seizures, it cannot always eliminate them.

• Inattention and hyperactivity. Stimulant medications such as methylphenidate (Ritalin®), used safely and effectively in persons with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, have also been prescribed for kids with autism. These medications may decrease impulsivity and hyperactivity in some kids, especially those higher functioning kids.

• Behavioral problems. Antipsychotic medications have been used to treat severe behavioral problems. These medications work by reducing the activity in the brain of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Among the older, typical antipsychotics, such as haloperidol (Haldol®), thioridazine, fluphenazine, and chlorpromazine, haloperidol was found in more than one study to be more effective than a placebo in treating serious behavioral problems.27 However, haloperidol, while helpful for reducing symptoms of aggression, can also have adverse side effects, such as sedation, muscle stiffness, and abnormal movements. Placebo-controlled studies of the newer “atypica” antipsychotics are being conducted on kids with autism. The first such study, conducted by the NIMH-supported Research Units on Pediatric Psychopharmacology (RUPP) Autism Network, was on risperidone (Risperdal®).28 Results of the 8-week study were reported in 2002 and showed that risperidone was effective and well tolerated for the treatment of severe behavioral problems in kids with autism. The most common side effects were increased appetite, weight gain and sedation. Further long-term studies are needed to determine any long-term side effects. Other atypical antipsychotics that have been studied recently with encouraging results are olanzapine (Zyprexa®) and ziprasidone (Geodon®). Ziprasidone has not been associated with significant weight gain.

• Anxiety and depression. The selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI's) are the medications most often prescribed for symptoms of anxiety, depression, and/or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Only one of the SSRI's, fluoxetine, (Prozac®) has been approved by the FDA for both OCD and depression in kids age 7 and older. Three that have been approved for OCD are fluvoxamine (Luvox®), age 8 and older; sertraline (Zoloft®), age 6 and older; and clomipramine (Anafranil®), age 10 and older.4 Treatment with these medications can be associated with decreased frequency of repetitive, ritualistic behavior and improvements in eye contact and social contacts. The FDA is studying and analyzing data to better understand how to use the SSRI's safely, effectively, and at the lowest dose possible.

Several other medications have been used to treat Autism Spectrum Disorders symptoms; among them are other antidepressants, naltrexone, lithium, and some of the benzodiazepines such as diazepam (Valium®) and lorazepam (Ativan®). The safety and efficacy of these medications in kids with autism has not been proven. Since individuals may respond differently to different medications, your youngster's unique history and behavior will help your doctor decide which medication might be most beneficial.

Adults with an Autism Spectrum Disorder—

Some grown-ups with Autism Spectrum Disorders, especially those with high-functioning autism or with Aspergers, are able to work successfully in mainstream jobs. Nevertheless, communication and social problems often cause difficulties in many areas of life. They will continue to need encouragement and moral support in their struggle for an independent life.

Many others with Autism Spectrum Disorders are capable of employment in sheltered workshops under the supervision of managers trained in working with persons with disabilities. A nurturing environment at home, at school, and later in job training and at work, helps persons with Autism Spectrum Disorders continue to learn and to develop throughout their lives.

The public schools’ responsibility for providing services ends when the person with Autism Spectrum Disorders reaches the age of 22. The family is then faced with the challenge of finding living arrangements and employment to match the particular needs of their adult youngster, as well as the programs and facilities that can provide support services to achieve these goals. Long before your youngster finishes school, you will want to search for the best programs and facilities for your young adult. If you know other moms and dads of Autism Spectrum Disorders grown-ups, ask them about the services available in your community. If your community has little to offer, serve as an advocate for your youngster and work toward the goal of improved employment services. Research the resources listed in the back of this brochure to learn as much as possible about the help your youngster is eligible to receive as an adult.

Living Arrangements for the Adult with an Autism Spectrum Disorder—

• Foster homes and skill-development homes. Some families open their homes to provide long-term care to unrelated grown-ups with disabilities. If the home teaches self-care and housekeeping skills and arranges leisure activities, it is called a “skill-development” home.

• Independent living. Some grown-ups with Autism Spectrum Disorders are able to live entirely on their own. Others can live semi-independently in their own home or apartment if they have assistance with solving major problems, such as personal finances or dealing with the government agencies that provide services to persons with disabilities. This assistance can be provided by family, a professional agency, or another type of provider.

• Living at home. Government funds are available for families that choose to have their adult youngster with Autism Spectrum Disorders live at home. These programs include Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Medicaid waivers, and others. Information about these programs is available from the Social Security Administration (SSA). An appointment with a local SSA office is a good first step to take in understanding the programs for which the young adult is eligible.

• Long-term care facilities. This alternative is available for those with Autism Spectrum Disorders who need intensive, constant supervision.

• Supervised group living. Persons with disabilities frequently live in group homes or apartments staffed by professionals who help the individuals with basic needs. These often include meal preparation, housekeeping, and personal care needs. Higher functioning persons may be able to live in a home or apartment where staff only visit a few times a week. These persons generally prepare their own meals, go to work, and conduct other daily activities on their own.

Vaccinations—

The Institute of Medicine (IOM) conducted a thorough review on the issue of a link between thimerosal (a mercury based preservative that is no longer used in vaccinations) and autism. The final report from IOM, Immunization Safety Review: Vaccines and Autism, released in May 2004, stated that the committee did not find a link.

Until 1999, vaccines given to infants to protect them against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), and Hepatitis B contained thimerosal as a preservative. Today, with the exception of some flu vaccines, none of the vaccines used in the U.S. to protect preschool aged kids against 12 infectious diseases contain thimerosal as a preservative. The MMR vaccine does not and never did contain thimerosal. Varicella (chickenpox), inactivated polio (IPV), and pneumococcal conjugate vaccines have also never contained thimerosal.

A U.S. study looking at environmental factors including exposure to mercury, lead and other heavy metals is ongoing.

Biologic Basis of Autism Spectrum Disorders—

Because of its relative inaccessibility, scientists have only recently been able to study the brain systematically. But with the emergence of new brain imaging tools—computerized tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET), single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), study of the structure and the functioning of the brain can be done. With the aid of modern technology and the new availability of both normal and autism tissue samples to do postmortem studies, researchers will be able to learn much through comparative studies.

Postmortem and MRI studies have shown that many major brain structures are implicated in autism. This includes the cerebellum, cerebral cortex, limbic system, corpus callosum, basal ganglia, and brain stem.29 Other research is focusing on the role of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and epinephrine.

Research into the causes of autism spectrum disorders is being fueled by other recent developments. Evidence points to genetic factors playing a prominent role in the causes for Autism Spectrum Disorders. Twin and family studies have suggested an underlying genetic vulnerability to Autism Spectrum Disorders.30To further research in this field, the Autism Genetic Resource Exchange, a project initiated by the Cure Autism Now Foundation, and aided by an NIMH grant, is recruiting genetic samples from several hundred families. Each family with more than one member diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders is given a 2-hour, in-home screening. With a large number of DNA samples, it is hoped that the most important genes will be found. This will enable scientists to learn what the culprit genes do and how they can go wrong.

Another exciting development is the Autism Tissue Program (http://www.brainbank.org), supported by the Autism Society of America Foundation, the Medical Investigation of Neurodevelopmental Disorders (M.I.N.D.) Institute at the University of California, Davis, and the National Alliance for Autism Research. The program is aided by a grant to the Harvard Brain and Tissue Resource Center (http://www.brainbank.mclean.org), funded by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). Studies of the postmortem brain with imaging methods will help us learn why some brains are large, how the limbic system develops, and how the brain changes as it ages. Tissue samples can be stained and will show which neurotransmitters are being made in the cells and how they are transported and released to other cells. By focusing on specific brain regions and neurotransmitters, it will become easier to identify susceptibility genes.

Recent neuroimaging studies have shown that a contributing cause for autism may be abnormal brain development beginning in the infant’s first months. This “growth dysregulation hypothesis” holds that the anatomical abnormalities seen in autism are caused by genetic defects in brain growth factors. It is possible that sudden, rapid head growth in an infant may be an early warning signal that will lead to early diagnosis and effective biological intervention or possible prevention of autism.



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