Asperger Syndrome

Definition

Definition of Asperger Syndrome
Asperger syndrome, also known as Asperger's syndrome or Asperger disorder, is an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) that is characterized by significant difficulties in social interaction, alongside restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior and interests. It differs from other autism spectrum disorders by its relative preservation of linguistic and cognitive development. Although not required for diagnosis, physical clumsiness and atypical use of language are frequently reported.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Asperger Syndrome
People with Asperger syndrome become over-focused or obsessed on a single object or topic, ignoring all others. They want to know everything about this topic, and often talk about little else.

1. Children with Asperger syndrome will present many facts about their subject of interest, but there will seem to be no point or conclusion.
2. They often do not recognize that the other person has lost interest in the topic.
3. Areas of interest may be quite narrow, such as an obsession with train schedules, phone books, a vacuum cleaner, or collections of objects.

Causes

Causes of Asperger Syndrome
The exact cause is unknown, although research supports the likelihood of a genetic basis; brain imaging techniques have not identified a clear common pathology. There is no single treatment, and the effectiveness of particular interventions is supported by only limited data. Intervention is aimed at improving symptoms and function. The mainstay of management is behavioral therapy, focusing on specific deficits to address poor communication skills, obsessive or repetitive routines, and physical clumsiness. Most children improve as they mature to adulthood, but social and communication difficulties may persist. Some researchers and people with Asperger's have advocated a shift in attitudes toward the view that it is a difference, rather than a disability that must be treated or cured.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Asperger Syndrome
There is not a standardized (used and accepted by almost everyone) test used to diagnose Asperger syndrome.

Most doctors look for a core group of behaviors to help them diagnose Asperger syndrome.

These behaviors include:

1. Abnormal eye contact
2. Aloofness
3. Failure to turn when called by name
4. Failure to use gestures to point or show
5. Lack of interactive play
6. Lack of interest in peers

Treatment

Treatment of Asperger Syndrome
There is no single best treatment for all children with Asperger syndrome. Most experts feel that the earlier treatment is started, the better.

Programs for children with Asperger syndrome teach skills by building on a series of simple steps, using highly structured activities. Important tasks or points are repeated over time to help reinforce certain behaviors.

Types of programs may include:

1. Cognitive behavior or talk therapy, to help children manage their emotions, repetitive behaviors, and obsessions
2. Parent training, to teach techniques that can be used at home
3. Physical or occupational therapy, to help with motor skills and sensory problems
4. Social skills training, often taught in a group
5. Speech and language therapy, to help with the skill of everyday conversation

Medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), antipsychotics, and stimulants may be used to treat problems such as anxiety, depression, and aggression.

Prognosis

Prognosis of Asperger Syndrome
With treatment, many children and their families can learn to cope with the problems of Asperger syndrome. Social interaction and personal relationships may still be problems. However, many adults work successfully in mainstream jobs and are able to have an independent life, if they have the right kind of support available.

Prevention

Prevention of Asperger Syndrome
Asperger's syndrome cannot be prevented or cured. However, early diagnosis and treatment can improve function and quality of life.