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What is Autism, ASD and PDD?

 

Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life, very often between 15 and 20 months of age.  The result of a neurological disorder that affects the functioning of the brain, autism impacts the normal development of the brain in areas of social interaction and communication skills.  Children and adults with autism typically have difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities.  

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are a group of developmental disabilities defined by significant impairments in social interaction and communication and the presence of unusual behaviors and interests.  Many people with ASDs also have unusual ways of learning, paying attention, or reacting to different sensations.  The thinking and learning abilities of people with ASDs can vary--from gifted to severely challenged.  ASD begins before the age of 3, so early identification is important.  ASD lasts a lifetime and occurs throughout all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups.  It is four times as likely to occur in boys than girls.

ASDs include Autistic Disorder, Asperger's Syndrome, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS).  These three disorders are also included among the five disorders that come under the umbrella of Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD).  PDD, a category of neurological disorders by "severe and pervasive impairment in several areas of development," including social interaction and communications skills, includes two additional disorders:  Rett's Disorder and Childhood Disintegrative Disorder. 

The five disorders under PDD are:
  • Autistic Disorder
  • Asperger's Disorder
  • Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (CDD)
  • Rett's Disorder
  • PDD-Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)

Each of these disorders has specific diagnostic criteria as outlined by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) in its Diagnostic & Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.

It should be noted that some organizations might define ASD's as all five disorders, but this is contrary to the information provided by the Department of Health and Human Services, CDC.