Autistic behavior

Definition:

Autistic behavior describes behavioral patterns similar to those seen in autism.

Considerations:

Autistic behavior includes:

Absent or poorly-developed verbal and nonverbal communication skills (inability to clearly express thoughts and needs )
Abnormal socialization (lack of need for interacting with others)
Social withdrawal
Inability to make friends
Repetitive body movements
Ritualistic behavior
Lack of eye contact
Various speech pattern abnormalities

Several infectious and neurological diseases can produce symptoms mimicking autism.

Common Causes:

Infantile autism
Deafness
Mental retardation
Metabolic degenerative CNS (central nervous system) disorders
Schizophrenia

Home Care:

Home care depends on the cause of the behavior. The child's safety needs must always be considered.

Call your health care provider if:

Call your provider if your child exhibits autistic behavior but is not known to be autistic.

Review Date: 5/12/2006
Reviewed By: Daniel Rauch, MD, FAAP, Director, Pediatric Hospitalist Program, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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