The following are the most important disorders or complications that may be contributed to by Asperger syndrome (AS): Psyche – Nervous System (F00-F99; G00-G99). Anxiety disorders Depression Further Delinquent behavior in individuals with Asperger syndrome (2.74-26%).
Diagnostic criteria of Asperger syndrome in adults (according to the ADULT Asperger Assessment (AAA)). Areas Subtopics A: Qualitative impairment of social interaction (≥ 3 of 5 domains). Significant impairments in the area of nonverbal behavior. Does not want to please others or share his/her experiences Unsuccessful in building relationships with peers Lack of social or … Asperger Syndrome: Classification
A comprehensive clinical examination is the basis for selecting further diagnostic steps: General physical examination – including blood pressure, pulse, body weight, height; further: Inspection (viewing) of the skin, mucous membranes and sclerae (white part of the eye). Neurological/psychiatric examination
2nd order laboratory parameters – depending on the results of the history, physical examination and obligatory laboratory parameters – for differential diagnostic clarification. If necessary, genetic diagnostics: a human genetic examination should be recommended to the affected person and / or the guardian or legal representative if there is a clinical indication.
Optional medical device diagnostics – depending on the results of the history, physical examination, laboratory diagnostics, and obligatory medical device diagnostics – for differential diagnostic clarification Magnetic resonance imaging of the skull (cranial MRI, cranial MRI or cMRI) – if there is a clinical indication and if from the result actionable indications are expected. Encephalogram … Asperger Syndrome: Diagnostic Tests
To prevent autism, attention must be paid to reducing individual risk factors. Medications taken by the mother during pregnancy: Misoprostol – active substance used for stomach ulcers. Thalidomide – sedative / sleeping pill, which became known through the so-called thalidomide scandal. Valproic acid / valproate – active substance used in epilepsy. Environmental pollution – intoxications … Asperger Syndrome: Prevention
Patients with Asperger syndrome (AS) show abnormalities in at least one of the three core autistic symptoms: “Social interaction disorder”: Loner since childhood Lack of empathy in social relationships “Disruption of communication” Fleeting eye contact Reduced gestures and facial expressions Striking speech melody Implicit prompts are not understood “Restricted interests and repetitive behavior patterns.” Intense … Asperger Syndrome: Symptoms, Complaints, Signs
Pathogenesis (development of the disease) The cause of autism/Asperger syndrome often remains unclear. Studies currently focus on the oxytocin receptor gene (OXTR) as a risk factor. Etiology (Causes) Biographic causes Genetic burden from parents, grandparents (52.4%). Genetic risk dependent on gene polymorphisms: Genes/SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphism; English : single nucleotide polymorphism): Genes: SLC25A12 SNP: rs4307059 … Asperger Syndrome: Causes
To improve care and with the goal of facilitating timely and accurate diagnosis, a stepwise approach should be used (consensus-based recommendation): When an autism spectrum disorder is suspected, a prompt, orienting assessment should first be performed using valid, age-specific screening instruments and conducting an orienting clinical evaluation. If the suspicion is confirmed, the person should … Asperger Syndrome: Therapy
Family history (medical history) is an important component in the diagnosis of Asperger syndrome (AS). Family history Are there any inherited disorders in your family? Social history What is your profession? Is there any evidence of psychosocial stress or strain due to your family situation? Current anamnesis/systemic anamnesis (somatic and psychological complaints) [if necessary, including … Asperger Syndrome: Medical History
Psyche – Nervous System (F00-F99; G00-G99). Alexithymia (emotional blindness, emotional coldness). Anxiety disorders Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) Attachment disorders Personality disorders Anxious-avoidant personality disorder Borderline personality disorder Narcissistic personality disorder Schizoid personality disorder Schizotypal personality disorder Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Schizophrenia simplex – adult onset schizophrenia that is slow and insidious, lacking the … Asperger Syndrome: Or something else? Differential Diagnosis