Autism Spectrum Disorder - Causes, Pathophysiology, Signs & Symptoms, Treatment

Video transcript :-
Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by impairments in social interactions, communication difficulties, and repetitive or restrictive behaviors, interests, and activities.
Globally, autism affects about 1% of children.
It is significantly more prevalent in boys than in girls, with a male-to-female ratio of approximately 6:1.
Developmental abnormalities are present from infancy, and most cases become apparent before the age of five.
Genetics plays a major role in the development of ASD.
Other contributing risk factors include:
Premature birth.
Congenital disorders such as cerebral palsy.
Maternal exposure to harmful substances during pregnancy, including teratogenic medications like sodium valproate and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, as well as environmental toxins such as pesticides.
And immune system dysfunction.
Autism is also associated with various genetic disorders, including fragile X syndrome, muscular dystrophies, neurofibromatosis, and tuberous sclerosis.
Children with autism primarily exhibit three key areas of impairment:
First, they have deficits in Social Development.
Children with autism struggle to form emotional connections with others.
For instance, they often do not respond to parental affection through smiles or cuddles and may resist being held or kissed.
Additionally, they show little to no interest in interacting with other children.
A hallmark feature is gaze avoidance, meaning they avoid direct eye contact.
Second, they have challenges in communication.
Speech development may be significantly delayed, or in some cases, speech may never develop. When speech is present, it is often atypical, with children misusing pronouns or engaging in echolalia—repeating words or phrases spoken by others.
These speech abnormalities are typically linked to severe cognitive impairments.
Furthermore, children with autism tend to lack imaginative or creative play.
Third, they exhibit repetitive and restricted Behaviors.
The term "obsessive need for sameness" describes this aspect of autism.
Affected children may insist on eating the same food daily, wearing identical clothes, or participating in repetitive activities.
Some are particularly fascinated by spinning objects or toys.
Beyond these core symptoms, children with autism may exhibit irritability without an apparent cause, hyperactivity, and disrupted sleep patterns.
Some have difficulties with toilet training, leading to frequent soiling or bedwetting.
Self-injurious behaviors can also occur in certain cases.
Additionally, around 25% of children with autism develop seizures.
Children with autism are also at a higher risk of experiencing co-existing psychiatric conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, anxiety disorders, and eating disorders.
The first step in managing autism is educating parents about their child’s condition.
Behavioral therapy, particularly early intensive behavioral interventions, plays a crucial role in addressing abnormal behaviors.
It is also essential to identify and treat any co-occurring conditions.
Unfortunately, no medication is currently approved to specifically target the core symptoms of autism spectrum disorder.

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