What causes Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Several recent studies have identified specific genes, which include extra copies or missing stretches of DNA, which may result in autism. Research is still ongoing, however. “The take-away message is that it’s probably not a single gene that occurs in every child with autism – one model suggests it’s multiple genes,” explains Dr. Lord. That doesn’t explain the basic cause of autism, she adds, because it’s still unclear what causes the genetic difference, and when.

Evidence that autism spectrum disorders are passed down through families comes primarily from research on twins. If one twin has autism, chances are the other has autistic characteristics such as a language delay or social withdrawal, says Dr. Lord. Furthermore, if a couple has one child with autism, their chances of having another autistic child goes up dramatically. But although autism spectrum disorder (ASD) traits may run though families, she adds, it’s uncertain what particular combination or amount of genetic differences results in full-blown ASD.
Research about potential environmental triggers, such as hormones and heavy metals, continues. The weight of evidence to date, however, suggests that there is no link between Thimerosal – a mercury-based preservative no longer used in vaccines – and autism.


Autism Spectrum Disorder Options

Given the unique expression of autism spectrum disorder in each individual and the limited long-term study of the efficacy of various treatment methods, there is no one-size-fits-all treatment for ASD. Therapies and education can help some children overcome distracting behaviors and gain communication, social and self-help skills, but the underlying condition remains throughout life. That said, many experts agree that early intervention can yield significant progress.

According to the Autism Information Centre of the U.S. Centres for Disease Control, treatments typically fall into five categories:

• Behavioral and Educational Interventions
• Complementary and Alternative Medicine
• Dietary Changes
• Medications
• Additional Treatment Resources

The right programs for each child vary widely, depending on their particular challenges. Learning as much as you can about available options, connecting with other parents and accessing local autism resources can be tremendously helpful. And as Dr. Lord notes, it’s also important to remember that treatment outcomes are as diverse as the ways in which autism affects individuals. While many children make significant gains, others may struggle despite extraordinary efforts and care. “Still, people need to remember that even if development is slow, that doesn’t mean that people stop learning,” says Dr. Lord. “You still want to apply the same creativity and optimism.”

“The years between two and four can be hard for parents of children with ASD, because communication is very tough and sometimes nonexistent,” adds Dr. Mottron. But it does get better, he says, particularly when parents learn to communicate in their child’s way, versus the way a typical child would or should, at least in their parent’s mind. He argues that scientific advances on autism spectrum disorders should result in greater understanding, from the general public and parents alike. “Of the hundreds of families I see a year, the majority perceive it not as a catastrophe, but as something to adapt to.”

Autism Spectrum Disorder Resources

Autism Society of America
Autism Society Canada
National Institutes of Health
National Institute of Mental Health
“Thimerosal in Vaccines and Autism,” Health Canada
U.S. Centers for Disease Control Autism Information Center