Autism Spectrum Disorders
Autism
Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are complex neurological disorders, which
include various pathological manifestations such as autism, Rett
syndrome, Asperger and pervasive developmental disorder.
ASD
are characterized by stereotyped patterns of behavior, decreased
communication skills, impaired social behavior, but also by anxiety,
depression, sleeping and eating disturbances, temper tantrums,
aggression or self-injury.
The
exact etiology of autism is unclear. Many causations are discussed:
genetic factors, genetic predisposition, gastrointestinal pathology,
autoimmune diseases, inflammation, oxidative stress, toxins,
mitochondrial dysfunction and iatrogenic causes such as food additives and
vaccinations.
In
addition to behavioral therapy, there are also approaches to counteract
this multifactorial disease by medications or supplements (Kumar, et
al, Pharm. Rep. 2012, 1295..):
