Genetics of Autism

Abstract

Autism is a complex developmental disability syndrome which is typically evident within the first three years of life. It results from a neurological disorder that impacts individual's development in the areas of communication and social interaction. Autism falls under the category of pervasive developmental disorders, which are characterized by severe and persistent impairment in multiple areas of development. Autism was first described in 1943 by Dr. Kanner, therefore this disorder was called Kanner syndrome in the past. Classic autism is apparent within the first year and even within the first months of life. In some milder cases, when an affected individual has a relatively normal intelligence and language development, the diagnosis of autism is not made until the time of elementary school. Autism is a life-long disability. The most pronounced characteristic of autism is inability of the affected individual to form relationships with others. In severe cases of autism, patients typically act toward others as if they were not present, and seem to make no distinction between animate and inanimate objects. In milder cases, patients are able to communicate with others, but may act with stiffness and peculiar awkwardness around other people, and have difficulties participating in leisure and play activities. Autism affects 1 in 150 births in the US and estimated 1.5 million Americans today are believed to have some form of autism. The incidence of autism increased by astonishing 556% percent since 1991 and continues to rise.

Read full article for:

• Prevalence of autism in general population
• Causes of autism: genetics vs environment
• Hereditary nature of autism and patterns of inheritance
• Genetics of autism: associated genetic and chromosomal abnormalities
• Autism as presenting symptom of other genetic disorders

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