The importance of early diagnosis in autism spectrum disorders

Abstract

Introduction. Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are a group of developmental disabilities that can cause social, communication and behavioral impairments. Around 75 million people have autism spectrum disorder, that's 1% of the world's population. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) finds that ASD affect an average of 1 to 36 children. 1 to 25 boys and 1 to 100 girls, report M:F- 3:1. CDC showed that 6,7 % of people with ASD have profound autism. Aim of study. There are several types of autism, which are characterized by different manifestations, can affect each person differently and can vary in intensity. It is important to diagnose as early as possible, because the earlier the intervention is done, the higher the chances of the child to recover. Most children were diagnosed after age 4, although autism can be diagnosed by age 2. Through therapy, the child learns, in a structured way, how to speak, how to behave, how to be independent. Methods and materials. Retrospective analysis of new data according to the CDC. Study and analysis of scientific literature. Quantitative and qualitative processing of results. Results. By means of MRI it was highlighted : hyperexpansion of the cortex surface (between 6 and 12 months) and an increase in brain volume (between 12 and 24 months) in children subsequently diagnosed with ASD, a greater number of circumvolutionations and anomalies in the white matter of the corpus callosum. It was found that the changes that occurred in the brain coincided with the period of the beginning of the installation of autistic behavior. Conclusion. The maximum period of development of the human brain is approximately between the ages of 0 to 3 years. Early intervention for ASD is important because proper therapy can reduce difficulties while helping them learn new skills and make the most of their strengths. During this period, the effectiveness of treatment with the help of behavioral interventions is three times higher, the signs specific to the disorder are significantly reduced.