Biology of the Autistic Syndromes

Autism is not a single disease but a syndrome of different diseases. In this completely reworked and updated third edition, two world authorities, Christopher Gillberg and Mary Coleman, address the difficulties this presents for clinical diagnosis with diagnostic aids and clear guidelines for medical evaluation. Epidemiology, neuropsychological studies and behavior complexes, such as self-injury, are reviewed in detail, and the authors give a detailed explanation of what is known about the molecular biology and genetics of autism. Epilepsy and electrophysiological studies are also covered, as well as biochemistry, endocrinology, immunology, brain imaging and neuropathology. The available medical therapies are reviewed, along with an update on what is known about other interventions, such as psychoeducational and behavioral modification procedures. The book concludes with an integration of current knowledge from diverse fields. This is an essential text for clinicians and will also be of interest to parents of autistic children. '... a comprehensive reference book as well as stimulating reading for various disciplines as such as electrophysiology, neuropathology, and brain imaging.' Journal of Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 'Clinicians will be well served by the Gillberg and Coleman book, and even serious students need to heed its message regarding the biological heterogeneity of autism, even in behaviourally well defined groups.' Isabelle Rapin, European Journal of Paediatric Neurology 'The chapter on the epidemiology of autism is one of the best in the book ... the authors' commitment to the people with autism whom they treat and with whom they work is an inspiration to all readers.' Diane Treadwell-Deering, Journal of American Academy of Child Adolescent Psychiatry