Asperger's syndrome (Pediatrics - PEDS)

Low urgency
-Moderately severe

It is a pervasive developmental disorder characterized by marked social impairment, communication difficulties, deficits in playability, and a range of repetitive behavior and interests, without significant language or cognitive delay.

The exact cause is unknown. However, research suggests that the factors causing this condition may be a combination of genetic and environmental variables.

It manifests during the first years of life and is characterized by a lack of empathy, poor socialization skills, pedantic and repetitive language, poor nonverbal communication, intense absorption in certain subjects, odd postures, and awkward and uncoordinated movements.

What distinguishes Asperger syndrome from classic autism is the absence of cognitive and language delays. 

Diagnosis is made with a complete medical history, neurological examination, and testing of social, cognitive and language skills. 

The goal of treatment is to maximize the person's ability to function by reducing symptoms, supporting development and learning.

Bibliographic references
  1. Laura Weissman, MD. Autism spectrum disorder: Screening tools. UpToDate. May 05, 2022
  2. Laura Weissman, MD. Autism spectrum disorder in children and adolescents: Overview of management. UpToDate. Dec 19, 2019.
  3. ASA. El  Síndrome  de  Asperger.  Obtenido  de  Autism  Society  of  America: https://www.autism-society.org/en-espanol/el-sindrome-de-asperger/. (18  de  11  de  2015)
  4. Mandal,  A. Causas  del  síndrome  de  Asperger.  Obtenido  de  News-Medical: https://www.news-medical.net/health/Asperger-Syndrome-Causes-(Spanish).aspx. (29  de  Mayo  de  2019)
Author
Dr. Abel Andrés Orelogio
Copyright
© TeckelMedical 2026

Symptoms

    Difficulty starting or responding to social interactions


    Lack of social smile


    Frustration due to difficulty in making friends


    Difficulty adapting communication to different situations


    Exaggerated interest in a topic or a person

Symptoms to watch out for

Psychomotor agitation

Self-care

Stimulate social skills by encouraging social encounters with people of their own age.
When giving instructions to your child, use simple words and specific examples.
Talk to your doctor about psychotherapy and other treatments.