April Health Newsletter 2011
AUTISM
Nurse Garrett
Autism
Autism is a developmental disability that typically appears during
the first three years of life and affects a person’s ability to
communicate and interact with others. Autism is defined by a
certain set of behaviors and is a "spectrum disorder" that affects
individuals differently and to varying degrees. Research shows
that it affects 1 out of every 110 children in the U.S. annually,
with a higher rate in boys.
Causes of Autism
There is no known single cause for autism, but it is generally accepted that it is caused by
abnormalities in brain structure or function. Brain scans show differences in the shape and
structure of the brain in children with autism versus neuro-typical children. In many families,
there appears to be a pattern of autism or related disabilities, further supporting a genetic
basis to the disorder. Other researchers are investigating the possibility that under certain
conditions, a cluster of unstable genes may interfere with brain development, resulting in
autism. Still other researchers are investigating problems during pregnancy or delivery as
well as environmental factors, such as viral infections, metabolic imbalances, and exposure
to environmental chemicals.
Early Signs of Autism
While Autism is treatable, children do not “outgrow” Autism. Studies have shown that early
diagnosis and treatment can lead to more favorable outcomes. Early signs of Autism
include:







Lack of or delay in spoken language
Repetitive use of language and/or motor mannerisms (e.g., hand-flapping, twirling
objects)
Little or no eye contact
Lack of interest in peer relationships
Lack of spontaneous or make-believe play
Persistent fixation on parts of objects
Has any loss of language or skill at any age
Diagnostic Tests
When parents become concerned that their child is not following a typical developmental
course, they turn to experts, including psychologists, educators and medical professionals
for a diagnosis.
At first glance, some persons with autism may appear to have an intellectual disability, a
sensory integration disorder, or problems with hearing or vision. To complicate matters
further, these conditions can co-occur with autism. However, it is important to distinguish
autism from other conditions, since an accurate diagnosis and early identification can
provide the basis for building an appropriate and effective educational and treatment
program. There are also other medical conditions or syndromes that can present symptoms
that are confusingly similar to autism.
A brief observation in a single setting cannot present a true picture of an individual's abilities
and behaviors. Parental (and caregiver) and/or teachers’ input and developmental history
are important components of making an accurate diagnosis.
A medical diagnosis is made by a physician based on an assessment of symptoms and
diagnostic tests. A medical diagnosis of autism, for instance, is most frequently made by a
physician according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-IV-TR) of the American
Psychological Association (2000). This manual guides physicians in diagnosing Autistic
Disorder, Asperger's Disorder and Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise
Specified according to a specific number of symptoms.
Autism doesn’t have to limit you or your child from having a normal life. God has equipped
all of his children with special talents and gifts; we just have to learn how to tap into those
gifts. We were all made in God’s image and we were all placed on this Earth for a specific
purpose. If you think your child may have Autism, don’t be afraid to seek out the
professional help you need, so that your child may live a full and abundant life!
Autism Resources
Local Chapters
Autism Society chapters are your best source of information and support. Most chapters are volunteer-led by parents,
care providers and other professionals. The Autism Society has chapters in nearly every state reaching out to
individuals with autism and their families with information, support, and encouragement.
Autism Society Montgomery County Chapter
4125 Queen Mary Drive
Olney, Maryland 20832-2109
(301) 652-3912
[email protected]
Autism Society Howard County
10280 Old Columbia Road, Suite #215
Columbia, Maryland 21046-2378
(410) 290-3466
[email protected]
Autism Society Harford County Chapter
PO Box 545
Bel Air, Maryland 21014
(410) 322-7687
[email protected]
Autism Society Frederick County Chapter
PO Box 3593
Frederick, Maryland 21702
(301) 746-8080
[email protected]
Autism Society Baltimore-Chesapeake Chapter
PO Box 10822
Parkville, Maryland 21234-0822
(410) 655-7933
[email protected]
Autism Society Anne Arundel County Chapter
PO Box 1304
Millersville, Maryland 21108
(410) 923-8800
[email protected]
Community Resources
Maryland Department of Disabilities
MDOD operates five programs that provide services and information for the benefit of Marylanders with disabilities,
their families, caregivers and service providers.
Contact the Maryland Department of Disabilities at 410-767-3660 voice/tty or 1-800-637-4113 voice/tty toll-free
The Parents Place of Maryland
Telephone (voice or TDD): (410) 768-9100
FAX: (410) 768-0830
Email: [email protected]
The Parents' Place of Maryland is a non-profit family-centered organization. Our sole purpose is to enhance the lives
of persons with disabilities.
Provides education, information, technical assistance, and supportive activities
-Conduct regular parent education courses and workshops
-Help parents find information
-Provide referrals to other individuals or organizations
-Work with parents directly to help obtain the best services for their children
-Actively promote support groups and parent-to-parent networking
-Maintain an up-to-date list of support groups for parents in Maryland
MD State Department of Education - Special Education and Early Intervention
Maryland State Department of Education
Division of Special Education/Early Intervention Services
200 West Baltimore Street, 9th Floor
Baltimore, MD 21201
(410) 767-0238
Autism Connect
The purpose of AutismConnect is to provide stakeholders in the state of Maryland with an online resource that will
assist them in locating and securing resources for individuals with Autism. The website focuses specifically on
research, educational resources, and advocacy organizations available to families in Maryland.
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services