Pervasive Developmental
Disorder 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.
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
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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, discreet
trial, or medication. |