Symptoms
Symptoms of regressive autism involve a loss of previously acquired skills. These may include:
Loss of spoken language: Child stops using words they previously knew.
Social withdrawal: Child becomes less interested in interacting with others, avoids eye contact, and stops responding to social cues.
Loss of social skills: Loss of reciprocal play, difficulty in showing or understanding facial expressions.
Repetitive behaviors: Increase in repetitive behaviors such as hand flapping, rocking, or fixations on objects.
Loss of interest in playing or interacting with toys.
Decline in motor skills: Some children may show a loss in motor skills like clumsiness or difficulty walking.
Causes
The exact cause of regressive autism is not fully understood. Research suggests a combination of genetic and environmental factors may play a role. There is no single known cause, and the reasons for regression can vary from child to child. Some theories include:
Genetic Predisposition: Underlying genetic factors may make some children more vulnerable to developmental regression.
Neurological Factors: Abnormal brain development or function might contribute to the loss of skills.
Environmental Triggers: Although not proven, some researchers are investigating potential environmental triggers, such as immune system dysfunction or metabolic imbalances. It is important to note that vaccines have been thoroughly investigated and have been proven NOT to cause autism.
Medicine Used
There is no medication that specifically cures regressive autism or reverses the regression. However, medications can be used to manage associated symptoms, such as:
Antipsychotics: To manage severe aggression or self-injurious behaviors.
Stimulants or Non-Stimulants: To address attention deficits or hyperactivity.
Antidepressants: To treat anxiety or obsessive-compulsive behaviors.
Melatonin: To help with sleep disturbances. Treatment focuses on therapies and interventions to support development.
Is Communicable
No, regressive autism is not a communicable disease. It is a neurodevelopmental condition and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Since regressive autism is not contagious, standard disease precautions do not apply. However, precautions focus on creating a supportive and structured environment for the child, which may include:
Establishing consistent routines.
Using visual supports to aid understanding.
Providing a safe and predictable environment.
Early intervention therapies.
Consulting with professionals: Regular consultations with therapists, doctors, and educators.
How long does an outbreak last?
Regressive autism isn't an "outbreak" type of illness. The regression itself can occur over weeks or months. The condition itself (autism spectrum disorder) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a comprehensive evaluation by a team of professionals, including:
Developmental Pediatrician/Doctor: Medical history, physical exam, and neurological assessment.
Psychologist/Psychiatrist: Assessment of cognitive and behavioral functioning.
Speech-Language Pathologist: Evaluation of communication skills.
Occupational Therapist: Assessment of sensory and motor skills. Diagnosis typically involves:
Parent interviews and questionnaires.
Direct observation of the child's behavior.
Standardized assessment tools, such as the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R).
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline for regressive autism typically involves these stages:
Typical Development: The child appears to develop normally, reaching developmental milestones within expected ranges, usually up to 18 months or 2 years of age.
Regression: A noticeable decline in previously acquired skills occurs, often between 18 months and 3 years old. This can happen rapidly (over weeks) or gradually (over months).
Plateau/New Development: After the regression, the child may plateau in their development or begin to learn new skills at a slower pace or differently than typically developing children.
Ongoing Challenges: Autism spectrum disorder is a lifelong condition, and individuals may continue to face challenges in communication, social interaction, and behavior throughout their lives, although early intervention can significantly improve outcomes.
Important Considerations
Early Intervention: Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial to maximizing the child's potential.
Individualized Treatment: Treatment plans should be tailored to the specific needs of the child and family.
Family Support: Parents and caregivers need support and education to navigate the challenges of raising a child with autism.
Ongoing Monitoring: Regular monitoring of the child's progress and adjustments to the treatment plan are necessary.
Comorbid Conditions: Children with autism may also have other conditions, such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD, which need to be addressed.