The Basics
Written by the doctors and editors at UpToDate � �
What is Asperger syndrome? " � Asperger syndrome is mild type of "autism spectrum disorder. " � Autism spectrum disorder is a brain disorder that affects a persons behavior and makes it hard for the person to communicate and interact with others. � �
In 2013 the "official " � names for autism spectrum disorders were changed. In the United States, "Asperger syndrome " � is now just known as "autism spectrum disorder " �. In other countries, the term "Asperger syndrome " � is still used. � �
Asperger syndrome affects each person in a different way. But most people with Asperger syndrome have a hard time relating to other people. � �
Asperger syndrome starts in childhood. It is more common in boys than in girls. � �
What are the symptoms of Asperger syndrome? " � The most common symptoms are unusual behaviors. For example, a child with Asperger syndrome might try to get another person's attention by pushing the other person. He or she might also play in the middle of a group of other children without noticing what the other children are doing or trying to join in their play. � �
Here are some other things a child or adult with Asperger syndrome might do: � �
- Stand too close to someone and talk non-stop about a single topic without noticing whether the other person is interested or even listening
- Not look into other people's eyes when talking to them. When speaking with someone else, the person with Asperger syndrome might instead stare at the other person's mouth or another part of his or her body.
- Have a facial expression that rarely changes
- Not use his or her hands or arms when talking
- Be disorganized and have problems finishing tasks, including school work
- Have trouble solving problems
- Be very sensitive to noises, odors, tastes, or visual information
- Have trouble knowing when someone is joking or teasing
- Have very specific, unusual interests, such as trains or vacuum cleaners
- Get very upset if a routine or plan changes
- Be clumsy
Are there tests for Asperger syndrome? " � Yes, there are a number of tests that different experts do to see if a person has Asperger syndrome. For children, these tests involve asking parents about how the child speaks and behaves. The doctor will also watch and talk with the child. � �
How is Asperger syndrome treated? " � Treatments include: � �
- Therapy " � Different types of therapy can teach children how to manage problems related to their disorder. For example, a child might have therapy to:
- Help control anxiety caused by loud noises or changes in his or her routine
- Learn how to recognize and respond to emotions
- Learn to understand tone of voice and body language
- Help with school " � Children with Asperger syndrome might need extra help and support in school, especially with staying organized. They also often need help with reading and writing.
- Medicines " � Doctors might prescribe medicines to treat conditions associated with Asperger syndrome. These conditions can include anxiety, depression, and problems paying attention. But medicines should only be used after therapy and education supports are in place.
All topics are updated as new evidence becomes available and our peer review process is complete. � �
This topic retrieved from UpToDate on: Nov 04, 2014. � �
Topic 83673 Version 2.0 � �
Release: 22.8 - C22.208 � �
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