Types of Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism, also referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorder constitutes to a wide range of neurodevelopmental disorders. There is not a single ‘type’ of autism; instead it exists on a spectrum which means it affects individuals differently and to varying degrees. If your child is living with autism, it is important for you to understand the various types of autism and the symptoms presented by each. This will guide you in helping your child cope with the disorder. Read on to know more.

Main types

There are five major types of autism include

1. Asperger’s syndrome

People with this syndrome perform well in school but they have problem with social communication and their behaviour are inflexible and repetitive.

2. Rett syndrome

This is a disease affecting a girl child and 1 in 1000 girls are affected by this disease. Rett syndrome is detected when the girl fails to achieve the desired developmental milestone.

3. Childhood disintegrative disorder (CDD)

It is a rare condition, mainly seen at the age of 3. Due to this disease, there will be a loss of previously gained physical and mental skills like motor functions and verbal abilities. This is a type of childhood dementia where there is an accumulation of amyloid in the brain.

4. Kanner’s syndrome

Children with Kanner’s syndrome may appear attentive and smart but they have underline traits of the disorder.

5. Pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS)

When the diagnostic criteria for autism are not fulfilled then the diagnosis of PDD-NOS is made. Children with PDD-NOS have milder symptoms of autism.