Ishtiaq Ahmed.
Autism spectrum disorder: needs urgent attention.
Isra Med J Jan ;11(6):423-4.

Autism is a complex neuro-developmental disorder, is not a one but a group of different multiple pathologies which varies in symptoms and severity from one patient to another and according to the recent diagnostic manual (DSM-5), all these different conditions are combined under one term i.e. Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). It is usually first noticed in 18 months to three years of age and mainly affects the child`s socialization, communication and cognitive functions. Autism is characterized by difficulties in verbal and nonverbal communication, social interaction, limited interest and repetitive behaviours1 . Prompt diagnosis and early intervention can result in marked improvement to an extent that most of these children may go to the mainstream schools. Unfortunately, in our country, majority of these children are undiagnosed due to lack of expertise or awareness among clinicians and parents. The parents are usually silent sufferers and the affected child is more unfortunate, who have to bear the brunt of this disease and mishandled usually.

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