The Biology of the Autistic Syndromes

Book excerpt: Autism is not a single disease but a syndrome of different diseases. In this completely reworked and updated third edition, two world authorities, Christopher Gillberg and Mary Coleman, address the difficulties this presents for clinical diagnosis with diagnostic aids and clear guidelines for medical evaluation. Epidemiology, neuropsychological studies and behavior complexes, such as self-injury, are reviewed in detail, and the authors give a detailed explanation of what is known about the molecular biology and genetics of autism. Epilepsy and electrophysiological studies are also covered, as well as biochemistry, endocrinology, immunology, brain imaging and neuropathology. The available medical therapies are reviewed, along with an update on what is known about other interventions, such as psychoeducational and behavioral modification procedures. The book concludes with an integration of current knowledge from diverse fields. This is an essential text for clinicians and will also be of interest to parents of autistic children.