What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Asperger Disorder
• Autistic Spectrum Disorder - Asperger Syndrome
• Pervasive Developmental Disorder - Asperger Syndrome

What is Asperger Syndrome? (Definition/Background Information)

• Asperger Syndrome is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder categorized under autism spectrum disorder or pervasive developmental disorders.
• The exact cause of Asperger Syndrome is unknown and the condition commonly affects male children.
• Individuals with Asperger Syndrome exhibit difficulty in interacting with others in the society and display a confined and ‘repeated’ design of behavior and interest. Though, they do not suffer from ‘language delays’ or linguistic development.
• They have inadequate (and may be faulty) social skills, experience difficulty in communicating with others, and have poor coordination ability. Hence, they are seen by others as being different, having peculiar motor delays, clumsiness, limited interest, and peculiar preoccupations.
• There is no specific treatment to cure Asperger Syndrome. The treatment is aimed at managing symptoms and teaching social, communication, and vocational skills that are lacking, according to age.
• Systematic treatment and adequate family support will definitely help individuals with Asperger Syndrome cope with life stressors and lead a normal life.

Who gets Asperger Syndrome? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Children between the age group of 5-9 years are most likely to be affected by Asperger Syndrome
• Male children are affected more commonly than female children (about 3-4 times)
• The condition may occur in individuals of all racial and ethnic groups; a worldwide distribution is observed

What are the Risk Factors for Asperger Syndrome? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors of Asperger Syndrome are:

• Genetic factors: Family history of Asperger Syndrome is one of the strongest risk factors
• Gender: Male children are more likely to be affected than female children

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Asperger Syndrome? (Etiology)

The exact cause for Asperger Syndrome is not yet known, as multiple factors play role in its occurrence. A few possible causes could include:

• Genetic factors: Although no specific gene has been identified yet, many of the members in a family may share some symptoms of Asperger Syndrome
• Abnormality of the brain: Researches have shown some functional and structural differences in the brain of children with Asperger Syndrome
• Exposure to certain teratogens (teratogens are agents that cause birth defects)

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Asperger Syndrome?

The signs and symptoms of Asperger Syndrome are:

• Concentrating on a single topic; having frequent conversations about it and excluding all other topics. It is difficult for them to understand that that the other individual(s) may have no interest on the topic being discussed
• Focusing on topics which are restricted and confined to a small area
• Difficulty in developing age-appropriate peer relationships
• Emotionally inappropriate behavior
• Having difficulty respecting other people’s emotions and reactions
• Experiencing difficulty differentiating between sarcasm and humor
• Abnormal body expression, eye contact, and gestures
• Fascination with maps, globes, and routes
• High level of vocabulary; formal speech patterns
• Developmental delay in motor skills that can include motor clumsiness and trouble with coordination
• They strongly resist any changes to their daily established routine

How is Asperger Syndrome Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of Asperger Syndrome is made by a team of experts who are specialized in diagnosing children with the condition. This is based on observation of certain behaviors of the individual such as:

• Being aloof; lack of interaction with others
• Abnormal eye contact
• Failure to respond when called
• Inability to use gestures to convey a point

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Asperger Syndrome?

The following are the complications that may be involved with Asperger Syndrome:

• Psychosis: When an individual loses contact with reality such as seeing or hearing things that do not exist
• Mood problems; anxiety, depression, anger tantrums
• Psychological difficulties
• Attention deficit disorder
• Hyperactivity disorder
• Non-verbal learning disorders such as facial expressions, use of eye gazes, and abnormal body posture

How is Asperger Syndrome Treated?

There is no specific treatment for Asperger Syndrome. Treatment is aimed at managing symptoms and teaching social, communication, and vocational skills that are lacking according to age.

The following modalities are helpful:

• Cognitive behavior or talk therapy
• Parent training
• Physical or occupational therapy
• Social skills training
• Speech and language therapy

How can Asperger Syndrome be Prevented?

Currently, there are no effective preventive methods for Asperger Syndrome.

What is the Prognosis of Asperger Syndrome? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

Systematic treatment, proper and adequate family support will definitely help individuals with Asperger Syndrome cope with life stressors and lead a normal life, though social interactions may still be a problem.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Asperger Syndrome:

• Autism is a developmental disorder characterized by social impairment, communication difficulties, and repetitive behavior

The following article link will help you understand autism:

http://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/autism/