What is autism?

Autism is a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders known as Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD). The other pervasive developmental disorders are PDD-NOS (Pervasive Developmental Disorder –Not Otherwise Specified), Asperger’s Syndrome, Rett Syndrome and Childhood Disintegrative Disorder.

Symptoms include qualitative impairments in communication and social interaction, repetitive, narrowly defined interests and behaviors, and differences in sensory processing.

Autism has a genetic basis, although the genetics of autism are complex and it is unclear whether autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is explained more by rare mutations or by rare combinations of common genetic variants. Controversies surround other proposed environmental causes, such as heavy metals, pesticides or childhood vaccines. It is now estimated that autism affects 1 in 110 children (1 in 70 boys). An estimated 1.5 million individuals in the US and tens of millions worldwide are affected by autism. Government statistics suggest the prevalence rate of autism is increasing 10-17 percent annually.

At this point in time it is not known what causes autism. The best scientific evidence available today points toward a potential for various combinations of factors causing autism – multiple genetic components that may cause autism on their own or possibly when combined with exposure to as yet undetermined environmental factors. There is a growing interest among researchers about the role of the functions and regulation of the immune system in autism –both within the body and the brain.