Autism Medical Reference

WebMD explains autism spectrum disorders, including Asperger's syndrome, Rett syndrome, PDD-NOS, and childhood disintegrative disorder.

It's not always easy for a doctor to make a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. WebMD breaks down what questions you may expect your pediatrician and ASD specialists to ask.

Therapies for autism spectrum disorder vary but they’re proven to be successful. Which could be the right treatment for your child?

Autism awareness for children has exploded in recent years. But what about the people who fell through the cracks years ago, when they were kids? Here’s how to go about getting an autism diagnosis as an adult.

Every child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is unique, so symptoms can look different in different people. But early treatment is important. Learn how to identify the most common symptoms.

Although there’s no cure for autism, there are different treatments that can help manage symptoms. Learn how various treatments can help with behaviors, communication, and more.

: Pervasive developmental disorders (PDDs) are now called autism spectrum disorder. Find out what it means.

Autism spectrum disorder was once broken down into several different conditions, but now they all fall under the ASD diagnosis. Learn what it means to have autism spectrum disorder.

Rett syndrome is a rare neurological disease that affects mostly girls. Learn the symptoms and how this disorder is treated.

Children with autism can improve the way that they use toys, learn, think and relate to others through play therapy. Learn about three methods of play therapy.

If your child has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure about their future. But with the right tools and information, you can help your child and your family thrive.

Someone with high-functioning autism might not seem "autistic." What's the difference between high-functioning autism and classic autism?

Different therapies can reduce symptoms and improve abilities in children with autism. WebMD examines some of the most popular and proven ones.

There’s a lot of talk in the media about vaccines and autism. Are they linked? WebMD sorts fact from fiction.

If you’re the parent of a child who has autism, you’re always on duty. How can you make time for yourself? WebMD shares some ways you can care for yourself and connect with others.

Can the food your child eats help improve her autism symptoms? WebMD examines whether a diet change can make a difference.

You hear a lot of talk nowadays about autism. But what exactly does that word mean? WebMD explains.

There’s a lot of talk in the media about autism -- especially about what causes it. But can you prevent it? WebMD examines the myths and the truth.

A reference list about autism.

WebMD provides information about autism tests and exams, including screening, that can help doctors diagnose autism early in children.

A complete medical history will be taken along with a physical examination to help confirm the diagnosis of autism or to see whether there are other causes for unusual behaviors.1 Additionally, the health professional will ask questions to assess the child's strengths and weaknesses and the family's resources.Information from this interview will help your health professional apply the diagnostic .

Autism and several other related disorders are grouped under the heading of pervasive developmental disorders (PDDs). These disorders all have similar symptoms.In addition, there are several medical conditions that can be confused with autism because of similar symptoms. Some of these medical conditions can occur along with autism but are not classified as PDDs. They include:Mental retardation. ..

Treatment for Asperger's syndrome strives to improve your child's abilities to interact with other people and thus to function effectively in society and be self - sufficient.

Although there are many possible symptoms of Aspergers syndrome, the main symptom is severe trouble with social situations.

Asperger's syndrome is a developmental condition in which people have difficulties understanding how to interact socially. A diagnosis is best made with input from parents, doctors, teachers, and other caregivers who know or who have observed the child.