After hearing tests rule out deafness, mental retardation is usually suspected. Autism is usually diagnosed when other factors, such as unusual skill with puzzles and music, rule out simple retardation. The once widely held theory that autism is merely a psychological or emotional disturbance has been largely abandoned. Most authorities now agree that the symptoms stem from a poorly understood metabolic or neurological malfunction. In some cases autism appears to be related to a failure of cells to bind serotonin, a chemical that plays an important role in transmission of nerve impulses.
Many autistic children improve, and a few recover, some becoming gifted adults.
Psychotherapy has not been found valuable as a treatment, but some children have been helped by a structured, directive, educational approach in which appropriate responses are rewarded. Heavy doses of certain B-vitamins may also be of value. All rights reserved. These pages give a paragraph or two of more important information pertaining to autism . This page provides links to general resources, nutrition related information, educational interventions, and other research done on Autism.