Asperger syndrome

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Asperger syndrome (AS), also known as Asperger's syndrome or Asperger's, is a term formerly used to describe a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by significant difficulties in social interaction and nonverbal communication, along with restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior and interests.[5] Asperger syndrome has been merged with other

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The exact cause of Asperger syndrome is not well understood.[5] While it has high heritability, the underlying genetics have not been determined conclusively.[19][20] Environmental factors are also believed to play a role.[5] Brain imaging has not identified a common underlying condition.[19] There is no single treatment, and the UK's National Health Service (NHS) guidelines suggest that "treatment" of any form of autism should not be a goal, since autism is not "a disease that can be removed or cured".[21] According to the Royal College of Psychiatrists,[22] while co-occurring conditions might require treatment, "management of autism itself is chiefly about the provision of the education, training, and social support/care required to improve the person's ability to function in the everyday world". The effectiveness of particular interventions for autism is supported by only limited data.[19] Interventions may include social skills training, cognitive behavioral therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy, parent training, and medications for associated problems, such as mood or anxiety.[8] Autistic characteristics tend to become less obvious in adulthood,[22] but social and communication difficulties usually persist.[23]