Autism in Children: A Literature Review

Pervasive developmental disorders (PDDs) are a group of neurobiological disorders characterized by fundamental deficits in social interaction skills or communication skills, or by the presence of stereotyped behaviors, interests, or activities. Autism, a member of the pervasive developmental disorders (PDDs), has been increasing dramatically since its description by Leo Kanner in 1943. Autism is characterized by severe and pervasive impairments in several important areas of development reciprocal social interaction and communication as well as behaviour, and imagination. Pediatricians have an important role not only in early recognition and evaluation of autism spectrum disorders but also in chronic management of these disorders. The primary goals of treatment are to maximize the childs ultimate functional independence and quality of life by minimizing the core autism spectrum disorder features, facilitating development and learning, promoting socialization, reducing maladaptive behaviors, and educating and supporting families.