Autism Home A-Z Health Information Health Library A-Z Autism Overview Autism or autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) refers to a neurodevelopmental disorder impacting social behaviour, communication, and social interaction. Causes Exact cause is not fully understood. Risk factors Biological male sexFamily historyMedical conditions like fragile X syndrome, Rett syndrome, or tuberous sclerosisBabies born prior to 26 weeks of gestationBeing born to older parents Symptoms No attention to auditory stimulus during infancyLack of verbal and non-verbal communicationRepetitive behavioursRestricted interestsLack of peer interactionSensory sensitivitiesResistance to change of environment. Specialist to approach Neurologist Diagnosis Clinical assessment with various scales available to diagnose ASDMRI brain and EEG to rule out acquired causes Treatment Cognitive and behavioural therapiesOccupational therapiesTo provide inclusive environment