Research Paper on "Autism in Depth"

Research Paper 5 pages (1450 words) Sources: 10

[EXCERPT] . . . .

Autism in Depth

Autism is a widespread behavioral condition which has been linked to genetic and chromosomal disorders. Throughout this research study numerous categories relating to autism were examined -- the history or etiology, objective diagnosis criteria, tools, and procedures for diagnosing autism, putative traits, incidences and prevalence of autism, theorized genetic causation, twin studies, and theorized environmental causation. Studies discussed in this report were conducted on various different samples of autistic patients. For example, to determine putative autistic traits, studies were conducted on children diagnosed with autism ranging from six months to nine years, while studies to determine environmental causation were conducted on lab animals. Findings of the research linked autism to genetic and chromosomal disorders, although the research linking autism to environmental disorders has been inconclusive. Twin studies reveal a high concordance rate for autism between monozygotic (identical) twins when compared to dizygotic (fraternal) twins. In short, this supports the genetic link that has been theorized for autism. As will all most medical conditions, research is still being conducted regarding the causes and incidences of autism. Although studies provide a clarity and understanding of many of the causes and traits of autism, much of the research conducted remains inconclusive. As research progresses, this condition will become better understood and treatment options will undoubtedly evolve along with the research.

Table of Contents

Introduction and Overview of Autism

4

History or Etiology (causes) of Autism

4

Objective Diagnosis Criteria, Tools, and Procedures

5

Putative autism ASD Traits Identified

6

Incidents and Prevalence of Autism

7

Theorized Genetic Causation

8

Twin Studies

8

Theorized Environmental Causation

10

Autism has traditionally been understood as a distinct behavioral disorder, characterized by impairments in social interaction and communication. Autism is has also been characterized as a neuro-developmental disorder. Sbacchi (2010). Many autistic patients demonstrate behavioral patterns that are sometimes restricted, repetitive or stereotypical. Such patterns of behavior are marked by language difficulties such as pronouncing sounds, stumbling on words, or echoing what was said. Also common in autistic individuals is an effect on one's social ability and social interaction. Steer (2010).

History or Etiology (Causes) of Autism

Although autism affects an estimated 1 in every 110 individuals, no consistent causes for the disease have been identified. Satterfield (2010). Much researched has been performed regarding the causes of autism and many of the studies have linked the disorder to genetic disorders involving mutation or deletion of DNA or a result of a malformation of chromosomes. Environmental factors, such as the exposure of the mother to chemicals or preservatives, have also been studied as a contributing factor in autism although the results are not conclusive in this area as yet.

In their study, Satterfield et. al screened for a link between XMRV and autism. XMRV is defined as Xenotropic murine leukemia virus. It is a recently discovered retrovirus that can infect humans. Satterfield (2010). The results of their study were that there was no association between XMRV and autism. Satterfield (2010).

Also studied as a potential link to autism is the assessment of plasma cortisol and the adrenocorticotropic hormone ( ACTH). The levels of plasma cortisal and ACTH in autistic children and adolescents were studied to address their relationship to disease. Cortisol has an important role in proper emotional development and functioning. Thus, abnormal cortisol levels were found in chronic depression and suicide prone behaviors, and lower levels of cortisol were found among holocaust victims with posttraumatic stress disorder. Hamza (2010).

The Hamza study revealed significantly lower morning basal cortisol, higher ACTH. Also revealed was a lower cortisol response after ACTH stimulation as the autistic severity increased. In other words, as the severity of the autism increased, the levels of cortisal were lower or the levels could be considered to become abnormal. This is similar to what occurred with the holocaust victims with posttraumatic stress disorder. The results of this study were confirmed by another study. Hamza (2010)

Additional causes related to genetics along with more detailed studies addressing the causing of autism are addressed later in this report. However, as has been determined there is not one single cause to the disease. Each study that is conducted results in additional understanding of the disorder, but determination of a single primary cause is not within reach.

Objective Diagnosis Criteria, Tools, and Procedures

Throughout the years, various criteria, research tools, and procedures… READ MORE

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