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- Title
ASPERGER SYNDROME IN ADULTS.
- Authors
DOLFI, ALEXANDRA; TUDOSE, CĂTĂLINA
- Abstract
The Asperger Syndrome is included in the autism disorders spectrum. Its main characteristics are: poor social interaction, low spectrum of interests and preoccupations and ritualic behaviors [1]. At the moment, there are no DSM specific diagnostic criteria for adult Asperger syndrome. The diagnosis is formulated based on a detailed history of the individual and his/her family, pointing out the behavioral characteristics of one's childhood and malfunctions in the social and professional life in the adult. The most used diagnostic scale is Adult Asperger Assessment which offers two quotients: AQ for autist spectrum features and EQ for empathy [5]. The prevalence is between 0.02- 0.03% in children, with dominance in boys versus girls (8:1) [1]. At the moment there are no clear studies about the prevalence of Asperger syndrome in adults, but it's probably similar to the one in children as the autist features persist to the adult age [1,2]. The etiology is unknown but it's considered to be multifactorial with genetic and neurobiological components (disturbances in the Theory of Mind, central coherence and executive function) and psychosocial disfunctions [6, 7]. The differential diagnosis in adults is made with the schizoid and schizotypal personality disorders, but also with OCD, schizophrenia, borderline personality disorder, etc [3]. There are no treatment protocols for Asperger syndrome. So treatment is based on psychotherapy (structured and direct interventions) and symptomatic pharmacotherapy for comorbidities (insomnia, depression, psychotic episodes, etc.) [7,8].
- Subjects
ASPERGER'S syndrome; SCHIZOTYPAL personality disorder; AUTISM spectrum disorders; BORDERLINE personality disorder; PSYCHOTIC depression; ADULTS; DIALECTICAL behavior therapy
- Publication
Romanian Journal of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 2019, Vol 7, Issue 1/2, p11
- ISSN
2360-185X
- Publication type
Article