Factsheet
Condition:
Autism
Inheritance:
Multifactorial
Genetic Etiology:
Features of autism can be a component of many genetic and chromosomal disorders. Autism also occurs as an idiopathic disorder. Genetic factors are believed to contribute, but specific genes responsible are unknown.
Frequency:
Various estimates put frequency between 1/600–1/2,500
Clinical features:
Autism is a behavior disorder that begins prior to three years of age and includes impairments in social interaction, impairments in communication, and occurrence of repetitive and stereotypic behaviors. There can be associated developmental and behavioral symptoms, including abnormal sleep, unusual reactions to sound, touch, or food, and abnormal motor development. Formal diagnostic criteria have been established.
Management:
Supportive and symptomatic care, including behavioral therapies and medication.
Genetic counseling:
Empirical recurrence risks for idiopathic autism are estimated at 4% for sibs of an affected child.