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Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting social communication and behavior. At LIV Hospital, we view autism through neurodiversity, providing tailored support and therapies to help each child maximize independence, develop skills, and navigate the world in their own way.
To understand the history of the diagnosis, we look to the Greek root autos, which means “self.” The term “autism” was originally coined in the early 20th century to describe patients who seemed withdrawn into their own world, cut off from social interaction.
In the 1940s, researchers Leo Kanner and Hans Asperger independently described children with these specific social and behavioral traits. For decades, terms like “Autistic Disorder” and “Asperger’s Syndrome” were used separately. However, modern medicine has unified these under the single umbrella of Autism Spectrum Disorder. This change reflects the scientific understanding that these conditions share a common biological basis, varying only in severity and presentation.
The scope of ASD is broad and exclusively neurological. It involves differences in brain development and connectivity. These differences affect how neurons (brain cells) communicate with each other. The autism definition encompasses a wide range of experiences, from sensory processing issues (being overwhelmed by loud noises or bright lights) to difficulties understanding social cues like sarcasm or body language.
The onset of symptoms typically occurs in early childhood, often before age 3. While it is a lifelong condition, the brain is capable of learning and adapting. This “neuroplasticity” is the basis for the early intervention therapies offered at LIV Hospital. By targeting the developing brain, we can help children build essential communication and social skills.
There is perhaps no medical condition more surrounded by myths than autism. It is critical to clarify what ASD is NOT:
Not Always Intellectual Disability: While some people with ASD have intellectual disabilities, many have average or above-average intelligence.
In the past, doctors used terms like “asperger’s” or “PDD-NOS.” Today, the medical community uses “levels of support” to categorize the severity of the condition.
Level 1: Requiring Support. Formerly often called Asperger’s. These individuals may speak in full sentences and have normal intelligence, but struggle with social nuances. They may have difficulty switching between tasks or organizing their lives.
Level 2: Requiring Substantial Support.t These individuals have marked deficits in verbal and nonverbal communication skills. Even with support, social impairments are apparent. They may have restricted interests and distress when routines are changed.
Level 3: Requiring Very Substantial Support.t These individuals may be non-verbal or have very limited speech. They experience severe difficulty coping with change and may have restrictive behaviors that interfere with daily life functioning.
The prevalence of autism has risen significantly, partly due to better awareness and diagnostic criteria. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 1 in 36 children is diagnosed with ASD. This makes it one of the most common developmental disabilities managed in pediatrics.
The importance of this specialty lies in early identification. Research consistently shows that early intervention, starting therapies before school age, dramatically improves long-term outcomes. It helps children develop language, social skills, and adaptive behaviors that allow them to participate fully in society.
The primary specialist for diagnosing and managing ASD is a Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrician. This is a medical doctor with advanced training in child development.
Pediatric Neurologist: May be consulted to rule out seizures or other neurological causes for the behavior.
While ASD originates in the Nervous System (Brain), it often affects the whole body.
Sensory System: The way the brain processes touch, sound, and sight is often altered (Sensory Processing Disorder).
Send us all your questions or requests, and our expert team will assist you.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition affecting social interaction, communication, and behavior. A Developmental Pediatrician or Child Psychologist evaluates the child’s developmental history and observes their behavior to make a diagnosis. They then coordinate a team of therapists (speech, occupational, behavioral) to support the child.
Treatment addresses the core deficits of social communication (like making eye contact or conversation) and restrictive behaviors (like repetitive movements or rigidity). It also treats co-occurring conditions such as sensory processing disorder, anxiety, sleep issues, and gastrointestinal problems.
Instead of distinct “types” like Asperger’s, ASD is now classified by Levels of Severity (Level 1, 2, and 3) based on how much support the person needs. However, clinically, doctors also look at whether there is accompanying intellectual impairment or language impairment.
You should see a specialist if your child misses developmental milestones, such as not smiling by 6 months, no babbling by 12 months, or no words by 16 months. Other red flags include a loss of skills (regression), lack of eye contact, or not responding to their name.
Autism primarily involves difficulties with social reciprocity and communication, often with repetitive behaviors. ADHD involves difficulties with attention, hyperactivity, and impulse control. While they are different, it is very common for a child to have both conditions simultaneously.
Many patients getting radiation therapy worry about being “radioactive.” They fear it might harm their loved ones. This worry is real because the treatment uses
