ASPERGER’s SYNDROME

This is neuro-developmental  disordes that effects individual’s behavior such as communication  and pattern of social interactions. Formerly this disorder was characterized as distinct autism spectrum disorder. It’s still disc as Asperger’s syndrome is separate clinical entity or high-functioning form of autism.  People with asperger’s syndrome normal to above-average intelligence but typically have difficulties with social interactions and often have pervasive, absorbing interests in special areas.

Dr. Hans Asperger first described this condition. Because the obsessive interests in and knowledge of particular subjects of this patients, he called them little professors. 

Positive characteristics of people with Asperger syndrome are:

 -The ability to work independently

 -The increased  ability to focus on details

 -Intensity and original way of thinking 

To give the diagnosis of asperger’s syndrome is impossible without direct testing and observation. It’s suggested that Thomas Jefferson, Mozart, Benjamin Franklin, Albert Einstein had Asperger’s syndrome.

Symptoms of Asperger’s syndrome are:

 -Lack of interest in socializing/making friends

 -Avoiding eye contact 

 -Lack  of use of gestures

 -Lack of changing facial expression

 -Failure to respect interpersonal boundaries

 -Unusually sensitive to noises, touch, odors, tastes.

 -Repetitive motor patterns such as hand flapping or arm waving

The children with this syndrome have normal language development in contrast to other autistic conditions. However there is alteration in language skills such:

 -Changes in voice and speaking

 -They have difficulties with understanding the subtle use of language, such as irony or sarcasm.

 -Disorganized or not relevant to the discussion speech.

In some cases there is psychiatric and behavior disorders  like:

 -Anxiety disorder

 -Depression  or other mood disorders.

There should be multidisciplinary approach in treating this patients. Medical therapy is not effective but in some cases selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor medications are used for relief of anxiety or depression. There are a lot of behavioral and educational interventions that can be useful. The type of intervention depends of individual’s age and needs.