Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a person’s ability to communicate, interact and understand the world around them. However, there are several conditions that may present similar symptoms to autism but are not actually autism.
One such condition is Asperger syndrome. This condition is classified as an autism spectrum disorder, meaning it shares many similar characteristics to autism but is considered to be a separate disorder. People with Asperger syndrome tend to have difficulty with social communication, often displaying a lack of nonverbal communication skills, difficulty making and sustaining friendships and an inability to pick up on social cues. They may also have difficulty understanding the emotions of other people. Additionally, people with Asperger syndrome often have restricted interests and repetitive behaviors.
Another condition that may appear to be autism but is not actually autism is Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (CDD). CDD is a rare neurological disorder in which a child experiences a regression in language, social, and other skills that have already been acquired. This disorder usually occurs between the ages of two and four and can involve a range of skills, including motor, language, social, and cognitive skills. Symptoms of CDD include difficulty communicating, impaired social skills, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors.
Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS) is another condition that may appear to be autism but is not actually autism. PDD-NOS is a diagnosis that is used when a child has symptoms of an autism spectrum disorder but does not meet the full criteria for a diagnosis of autism. Symptoms of PDD-NOS are similar to those of autism and may include difficulties with communication, social interactions, and behavior.
Finally, Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) may appear to be autism but is not actually autism. SPD is a neurological condition in which the brain has difficulty processing information from the senses. Symptoms of SPD include sensitivity to sounds, lights, textures, and other sensory stimuli, difficulty regulating emotions, difficulty focusing, and difficulty with social interactions.
Overall, there are several conditions that may present similar symptoms to autism but are not actually autism. It is important to be aware of these conditions so that they can be identified and treated appropriately.