Autism and Asperger's syndrome, along with pervasive developmental disorder, fall along a spectrum of neurodevelopmental disorders called autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Individuals with ASD struggle with social and communication skills and may face learning difficulties.
Common Signs
The spectrum disorders of autism, Asperger's syndrome and pervasive developmental disorder (PDD) share the common symptom of difficulty with social interactions. Individuals along the autism spectrum struggle to read facial or voice cues. Other common symptoms include poor eye contact, repetitive behaviors, motor skill delays and communication difficulties.
Differences
Individuals with autism often withdraw from interacting with the world, whereas those with Asperger's may attempt social interaction but in awkward ways.
Significance
The Center for Disease Control estimates that boys are affected four times more than girls are by autism spectrum disorder. They also say that one in 150 children in America suffer from autism, Asperger's syndrome or pervasive developmental disorder.
Time Frame
Signs of autism and Asperger's syndrome often appear by the age of 18 months. An accurate diagnosis is possible by the age of 2 years, and many children with autism are diagnosed by age 3. Most diagnoses of autism spectrum disorders are for children, but adults also receive the diagnosis.
Changes
Generally, early intervention reduces the signs and symptoms of autism and related disorders. However, the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke suggests there is a higher risk for developing seizures in autistic children who lose their language skills before age 3. In addition, autistic adolescents are susceptible to depression and behavior issues.
