Citation

Sławińska A. Psychiatr. Psychol. Klin. 2014; 14(4): 304-307.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2014, Medical Communications)

DOI

10.15557/PiPK.2014.0041

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Asperger's disorder (Asperger's syndrome) falls under the category of pervasive developmental disorders in DSM-IV and ICD-10. Not completely defined diagnostic criteria are the topic of discussion between investigators and clinicians. The new classification system - DSM-5 - eliminates Asperger's disorder, the broad term - autism spectrum disorder appears. Common symptoms of Asperger's syndrome include: verbal and nonverbal communication difficulties, egocentricity, problems with social skills, repetitive behaviors, limited range of interests, coordination problems. The manifestation of Asperger's syndrome alters across life. Symptoms become more visible around the time of adolescence, when social demands increase. The awareness of being unusual leads to increasing withdrawal. It is difficult to make a proper diagnosis, especially in adult patients. Lots of adult psychiatric patients presenting major diagnostic difficulty actually have Asperger's syndrome, which was previously undiagnosed. Asperger's disorder can be misdiagnosed with personality disorders or schizophrenia. Moreover, many conditions may be comorbid to Asperger's disorder (e.g. obsessive compulsive disorder, affective disorders, schizophrenia, eating disorders). Aggression, addictions, suicide attempts and ideation may also overshadow symptoms of Asperger's syndrome. In conclusion, there are many comorbid disorders and associated problems, which can contribute towards obscuring the underlying Asperger's syndrome in adult patients. © PSYCHIATR. PSYCHOL.KLIN. 2014.

Language: pl

Keywords

human; suicidal ideation; aggression; schizophrenia; suicide attempt; addiction; comorbidity; mood disorder; Asperger syndrome; eating disorder; social adaptation; personality disorder; clinical feature; compulsion; obsessive compulsive disorder; Article; coordination disorder; Asperger's syndrome; adult disease; DSM-5; Pervasive developmental disorders; Autistic spectrum disorder