The Los Angeles Times "Talk Back" columnist Tami Dennis asks why some parents insist on continuing to blame their children's autism on vaccines after the MMR (mumps, measles, rubella) vaccine=autism research was found to have been falsified. But parents of children with autism are looking hard for answers, and dismissing any idea, no matter how discredited, is difficult with so little known about ASD, autism spectrum disorder, What is the current thinking about autism's causes and possible treatments?
What is Autism?
Autism is a "spectrum disorder" meaning that it can manifest itself in various degrees of severity. According to Auyeung et. al, "Autism, high-functioning autism, Asperger syndrome (AS) and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) are collectively referred to as autism spectrum conditions (ASC)."
Near one end of the spectrum is Asperger's syndrome, a condition where children can function, but with some social limitations. Children (and later, adults) with this syndrome have difficulty with social connections and tend to focus on particular, idiosyncratic interests. At the most extreme end of the spectrum is autism that may manifest itself in child who is unable to make eye contact, who engages in arm flapping or continuous repetitive behaviors.
Pregnancy Spacing, Stressful Pregnancies and Foetal (Fetal) Hormones
One recent finding about autism leads credence to a developmental cause for autism disorders. New research links having closely spaced children to autism where "(t)he highest risk was associated with pregnancies less than a year apart," Other studies have suggested that the children of pregnant women in stressful situations (who faced a job loss or similar event) have a higher risk of autism.
Males are predisposed to autism spectrum disorder, with four times as many boys affected as girls. This has lead to theories about hormonal factors in autism spectrum disorders. Testosterone, the "male hormone" is suspect. Auyenng et. al discovered that higher FT (foetal or fetal testosterone) levels in amniotic fluid were associated with autism in toddlers. This effect may triggered from prenatal events or genetics. Autism is more likely in siblings, pointing to a genetic component.
Treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorders
The National Institute of Health lists three broad categories of treatments available for autism spectrum disorders: behavioral therapy and other therapies, educational and/or school based options, and medication. The therapeutic approach combines behavioral therapy with speech, occupational and physical therapy with each type of therapist targeting a particular problem. Educational approaches focus on developing and implementing the child's IEP, or Individualized Education Plan.
Medication options are sparse at present, with no medication approved by the FDA for the treatment of autism. But some symptoms may be treated with "Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), tricyclics, psychoactive/anti-psychotics, stimulants, and anti-anxiety drugs" according to the NIH website.
Oxytocin as Exploratory Treatment
Some researchers, like Jennifer Bartz of Mount Sinai Hospital, and some parents are turning to oxytocin, a hormone known to produce feelings of trust and empathy, something lacking in the autistic child. Preliminary results are encouraging, showing oxytocin helps autistic children identify emotions in others.
Understanding autism and other diseases on the spectrum is a puzzle that is being put together piece by piece, like the multifaceted treatments families employ to deal with the disorders. Hopefully soon, we will find all the missing pieces.
Sources:
Auyeung, B., Tayor K., Hackett, G. Baron-Cohen, S. Foetal testosterone and autistic traits in 18 to 24 month old children
Scientists Test "Trust Hormone" for Autism Fight
Wakefield and the MMR Autism Hoax
Pregnancy Spacing Linked to Autism Risk
Talk Back: Vaccines, Autism, Wakefield...Why is This Still and Issue?
Gina Barrett Putt - Gina Barrett Putt works in housing, with experience in case management for elders and the mentally ill, and college and K-12 education.
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