Asperger's syndrome (Paediatrics)

Global developmental disorder characterised by a predominant social alteration, communication difficulties, a deficit in the ability to play, and a repetitive range of behaviours and interests without a significant linguistic or cognitive retardation.

The exact cause is unknown. However, investigation tells us that the causing factors are a combination of genetic and environmental variables.

Its manifestations start in the first years of life and is characterised by a lack of empathy and the ability to socialise, repetitive and petty language, poor non-verbal communication, intense absorption for certain topics, strange postures, as well as clumsy and uncoordinated movements.

What distinguishes Asperger's from the classical autism disorder is the absence of cognitive and linguistic retardation.

Diagnosis is reached through the complete clinical history, a neurological exam and social, cognitive and linguistic abilities testing.

The objective of the treatment is to maximise the person's ability to fend for themselves while reducing its symptoms and supporting their development and learning.