Autismus-Spektrum-Störungen: von der Früherfassung zu Intervention und Begleitung

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are heterogeneous conditions with varying presentations and a prevalence of around 1%. They are characterized by social communication deficits and repetitive sensory motor behavior. The symptoms are present in the early developmental period and persist with varying phenomenology and severity over the lifespan. The most important differential diagnosis and comorbidities are intellectual developmental disorders, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and developmental language disorders. Early detection during the second year of life is possible. Evidence-based early intervention programs exist but are currently only locally available in German speaking countries. The burden of ASD for the family and the social environment is often tremendous. A competent medical case management in a network including partners from education and social welfare is crucial.