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Index of Diseases and Conditions: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Asperger's Syndrome

Asperger's syndrome (AS) is an autism spectrum disorder. It is milder than autism but shares some of its symptoms. It is more common in boys than girls.

An obsessive interest in a single subject is a major symptom of AS. Some children with AS have become experts on dinosaurs, makes and models of cars, even objects as seemingly odd as vacuum cleaners. Their expertise, high level of vocabulary and formal speech patterns make them seem like little professors.

Children with AS have trouble reading social cues and recognizing other people's feelings. They may have strange movements or mannerisms. All of these make it difficult for them to make friends. Problems with motor skills are also common in children with AS. They may be late learning to ride a bike or catch a ball, for example. Treatment focuses on the three main symptoms: poor communication skills, obsessive or repetitive routines, and physical clumsiness.

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke


External Resources

Attacking Asperger's Syndrome: Practical Parenting Solutions - Web-Book written by Lainey Melnick, the mother of a 13 year old son diagnosed on the Autism Spectrum.

Women From Another Planet? - Written by women with Asperger's Syndrome about how their lives are affected by the condition.

Asperger's Syndrome - Navigating the Social World - Curriculum for individuals with Asperger's Syndrome, High Functioning Autism, and related disorders, by Dr. Jeanette McAfee, focuses on understanding emotion and communicating effectively.

Asperger's and Self-Esteem - Insight and Hope through Famous Role Models - Norm Ledgin has identified 12 famous contributors to society with signs of Asperger's Syndrome.

Asperger's Syndrome - What Does it Mean to Me? - Book by Catherine Faherty expands the understanding of high functioning autism and Asperger's for the caregiver as well as individuals with these challenges.

Exceptional Resources - Autism books, autism videos, and other autism, asperger syndrome and related resources.

SKF Books, Inc. - Books and videos for parents and therapists who teach language to children with autism, Asperger's syndrome and other related developmental disorders.

Gaining Face - Software to help people with Asperger's syndrome, high-functioning autism, and similar issues learn to recognize facial expressions.

Coulter Video - Asperger Syndrome videotapes, including "Asperger Syndrome: Success in the Mainstream Classroom", with practical tips from parents and hands-on professionals.

Aspergers Syndrome Interactive Project - Investigating the use of virtual reality to teach social skills to people with Autistic Spectrum disorders.


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Behcet's Syndrome
Cushing's Syndrome
Fragile X Syndrome
Klinefelter's Syndrome
Marfan Syndrome
Metabolic Syndrome
Premenstrual Syndrome
Rett Syndrome

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