Autism spectrum disorder is so complex and varied, its causes are still relatively unknown. Recent research linked ASD to maternal herpes, while previous reports suggest a range of diseases and illnesses can damage the foetal brain, including rubella. On the other side of the research, developments in brain imaging have offered the possibility of diagnosing autism before the age of two, and there are now apps that can help manage the symptoms.
With such a minefield of information, WIRED explains what autism is and why an early diagnosis is so crucial. Read more: The truth behind claims autism can be triggered by herpes
Autism spectrum disorder is referred to as a "lifelong developmental disability" that affects how individuals interact with the world and the people around them.
It is a spectral condition, meaning that while people with autism can share certain difficulties, the condition manifests itself in different ways in different individuals. All people on the autism spectrum learn and develop in different ways, therefore different kinds of support are needed for every individual.
Despite the wealth of research on the causes of autism, the majority conclude that the condition is a result of impaired neural development in-vitro, and damage to the foetal brain. The particular causes of this impairment, however, are what is often in question. Researchers from North Caroline recently found that an increased growth in brain volume was a likely indication autism would develop.
Autism is often referred to as a "hidden disability" because the condition does not "look" visible. Parents may think a child with the condition is acting out, whereas adults with autism can often feel misunderstood and isolated. Although autism is a severely handicapping condition, support for those affected is improving as our understanding of the condition develops.
Around 700,000 people have autism in the UK alone - more than 1 in 100. It also appears to affect more men than women.
Since the characteristics of ASD vary from person to person, some signs can often be misinterpreted but children are typically diagnosed at the age of two. Read more: This algorithm can spot signs of autism in children a year before they're diagnosed
A diagnostic assessment can be organised through the NHS or a private assessment, though these vary in terms of cost. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, the NICE Clinical Guideline 128 is used in diagnosis. This assessment covers a variety of factors, such as methods of social communication and interaction; a restricted repetition of behaviours and activities that 'limit and impair everyday functionality'.
People with autism can find it hard to interpret tone of voice, facial expressions and jokes or sarcasm. Some may struggle to express themselves verbally, or to understand how best to react to what others are saying. This can lead to misunderstandings and anxiety, as a person with autism can be perceived as apathetic to others or certain situations. This can additionally impair their ability to form relationships, and feelings of social isolation can be a problem for those with autism.
While there are some genetic factors suspected to contribute to the development of ASD, such as fragile X syndrome or tuberous sclerosis, gene testing to diagnose pre-disposition to ASD is currently not possible.
The exact cause of autism is still undetermined, but scientists believe it is due to a combination of environmental and genetic factors. There is strong evidence to suggest that a variety of physical factors may be responsible, determining how the brain processes information. It is not the result of emotional deprivation, or the way someone has been brought up.
In the past, some people believed that the MMR vaccine caused ASD, but this has been investigated extensively in studies across the world and there has been no evidence to suggest a link between MMR and ASD.
MSSNG, the world's largest database for autism genetic sequencing, recently discovered an additional 18 genes linked to the development of ASD. These genes are related to the operation of a small subset of pathways in the brain that effect how cells develop and communicate with each other. In hoping to understand more about specific subsets of genes related to Autism, it is hoped that more personalised treatment methods can be developed in the future.
Asperger's syndrome is a form of autism, and is on the same spectrum, and people with the syndrome are typically of average or above average intelligence. They have fewer problems with speech than people with autism but may still have difficulties with understanding and processing language.
There is no 'cure' for autism, but speech and language therapy, as well as educational and emotional support can help people with ASD. Experts are finding that apps are enabling children with autism to feel safe and communicate more easily because the software is more predictable and ordered than human interaction, for instance.
Toca Boca in Sweden, for example, creates apps aimed at children aged between three and six – Toca Band encourages children to make music and learn about rhythm and tempo, while Toca Hair Salon Me lets players give their family and friends virtual haircuts.
Although the games are not specifically designed for autistic children, they have proved popular among parents who have children with the condition.
This article was originally published by WIRED UK
