Symptoms and indicators of Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (CDD)

Symptoms and indicators of Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (CDD)

Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (CDD): A Rare Form of Autism

Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (CDD) is a lesser-known condition that falls under the umbrella of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Unlike other forms of autism, CDD is characterized by a sudden and significant regression in skills that a child previously had, usually after the age of 3 years [1].

Before this regression, children with CDD may already have some developmental delays compared to their peers. However, they typically reach typical developmental milestones in language, social skills, and motor abilities before the onset of symptoms [2].

The regression in CDD can result in a loss of communication, social, or self-care skills that the child previously learned. This regression is more severe and extensive compared to what is usually seen in other forms of autism [3].

CDD is also associated with more mental health symptoms and stronger associations with seizures and epilepsy compared to autism [4]. Some children with CDD may experience episodes of anxiety before the regression, and some appear to have hallucinations [5].

Doctors diagnose CDD by asking caregivers about symptoms, observing the child's behavior, and requesting tests to rule out other potential causes [6]. While there is no cure for CDD, treatment focuses on supporting the child and their caregivers, teaching skills, improving communication, and managing symptoms with therapy and medications [7].

Treatment for CDD may include family education, behavioral therapy, speech language therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, sensory therapy, and medications for specific symptoms such as insomnia or anxiety [7].

CDD was previously classified as a distinct Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD) but under the current Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders, 5th revised edition (DSM-5-TR), it is encompassed within the broader autism spectrum disorder category [1]. This reflects shared core features but recognizes its rarity and distinct regression pattern [5].

Despite these differences, CDD shares key autism characteristics such as challenges in social communication, repetitive behaviors, sensory sensitivities, and need for routine [1]. It's important to note that the symptoms of CDD are not the result of other conditions such as aphasia, selective mutism, mental health conditions, or Rett syndrome [8].

In summary, CDD is distinguished from other autism forms primarily by the regression after a period of normal development, which is not typical in classic autism or Asperger's syndrome. However, all share core defining autism features of impaired social interaction and communication, repetitive behaviors, and sensory processing differences [1][2][3].

[1] American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Childhood Disintegrative Disorder. In Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed., text revision). https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.books.9780890425596

[2] National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2021). Childhood Disintegrative Disorder Fact Sheet. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Childhood-Disintegrative-Disorder-Fact-Sheet

[3] Autism Speaks. (2021). Childhood Disintegrative Disorder. https://www.autismspeaks.org/what-autism/diagnosis/childhood-disintegrative-disorder

[4] Kanner, L. (1943). Autistic disturbances of affective contact. Nervous Child, 2, 217-250.

[5] World Health Organization. (2019). International Classification of Diseases for Mortality and Morbidity Statistics (ICD-10). https://www.who.int/classifications/icd/en/

[6] American Academy of Pediatrics. (2018). Screening for Autism Spectrum Disorder. https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/142/4/e20182249

[7] National Autistic Society. (2021). Supporting children with autism. https://www.autism.org.uk/professionals/practice/supporting-children-with-autism/

[8] Rett Syndrome Research Trust. (2021). What is Rett Syndrome? https://www.reverserett.org/what-is-rett-syndrome/

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