Autism is a developmental disorder of the brain that causes patients to have extreme difficulty communicating and socializing with others. Approximately 560,000 children – about 1 in every 150 – have autism or another autism spectrum disorder (e.g., Asperger’s syndrome, pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified), according to recent findings by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Some patients with autism are also mentally retarded, whereas others have average to above-average levels of intelligence.

Patients with autism often have difficulty thinking, feeling and speaking. In some cases, the disorder is mild whereas in others, it is severe. Many patients with autism frequently appear to be in their own world, failing to acknowledge the presence of those around them and revealing little or no emotion on their faces. When speaking, patients may use an abnormal tone or rhythm in their conversation. In some cases, patients may not speak at all.

Though the cause of autism is not fully understood, it appears to be the result of abnormalities in several different areas of the brain. Researchers suspect that genetic factors may be at least partially responsible for autism. Some children appear to develop normally for a couple of years before regressing and exhibiting symptoms of autism. Most children who have the disorder begin displaying symptoms by the time they are 18 months old.

Autism can be difficult to diagnose. Children suspected of having autism are likely to be referred to a medical specialist with expertise in treating the condition. Experts from other medical fields may join the autism expert in trying to diagnose the child through direct observation and testing. Consultation with parents about trends in the child’s behavior and the child’s development of social and language skills may also be used to help make a diagnosis. Speech, language and psychological testing may also be performed.

Various treatment methods can help patients better cope with their autism. Psychotherapy can help patients reduce problem behaviors while also teaching them new skills such as improved socialization techniques. Other treatments that may be used with autistic children include speech, physical or occupational therapy. Some patients may also benefit from the use of certain medications.