Childhood Disintegrative Disorder
Definition
A rare condition occurring in 3 and 4 year olds. The child develops normally in all areas, between 2 years and 10 years
the child, loses skills across many areas. This regression is characterized by a determination over several months of
intellectual, social, and language functioning from previously normal functioning. The degree and extent of loss of skills
is more pronounced than children with other forms of PDD who may also develop and lose some social and language
skills.
Causes, Incidence and Risk Factors
The cause of childhood disintegrative disorder is unknown but it has been linked to neurological conditions. Some of
the neurological conditions that have been suggested are seizure disorder and tuberous sclerosis. The child with this
disorder has a loss of communication skills, has regression in nonverbal behaviors, and significant loss of previously
acquires skills. This condition is very similar to autistic disorder (autism).
Symptoms
There are several specific 'symptoms' from a list in the DSM-IV related to these difficulties, that children must show in
order to the criteria for Autistic disorder, some of which include:
- loss of social skills
- loss of bowel and bladder control
- loss of expressive or receptive language
- loss of motor skills
- lack of play
- failure to develop peer relationships
- impairment in nonverbal behaviors
- delay or lack of spoken language
- inability to initiate or sustain a conversation
Bridging The Gap ...
