pervasive developmental disorder (PDD)

Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD) is sometimes used as an umbrella term to cover a variety of disorders that have similar symptoms, including: 

• Autism
• Rett's Disorder
• Childhood Disintegrative Disorder
• Asperger's Disorder
• Pervasive Developmental Disorder NOS.

The NOS stands for Not Otherwise Specified, meaning the symptoms do not strictly fall within one of the above disorders.

Whether a disorder is labeled Autism or Pervasive Developmental Disorder is often confusing. School districts often categorize Autism, and the other disorders listed above all under the umbrella term of Autism. Medical and mental health disciplines, however, use PDD as the umbrella term to fit all the other disorders in as is directed in the DSM-IV, which is the "Bible" of mental health disorders.

Pervasive Developmental Disorder is characterized by severe impairment in several areas of development, including:

• Social skills
• Communication skills
• Interactive and play skills
• Interest in activities
• Stereotypical behaviors, such as perseveration on objects

Approximately 60-80% of children with PDD also have mental retardation. Levels of PDD vary, however, with some children learning to function quite well in society with very limited support and others gaining only minimal skills.

Although the cause of Autism is still largely unknown, there is indication that it is a neuro-immunological disorder. Treatments vary, and may include diet restrictions, behavior modification, discrete trial, or medication

Disclaimer Copyright