Autism and disintegrative disorder are different medical conditions - DSM IV

This page is research from an investigation by Brian Deer for The Sunday Times of London and the UK's Channel 4 Television into a campaign linking the MMR children's vaccine with autism. | Go to part I: The Lancet scandal | Go to part II: The Wakefield factor

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 1994

299.00 Autistic Disorder

Differential Diagnosis

Periods of developmental regression may be observed in normal development, but these are neither as severe or as prolonged as in Autistic Disorder. Autistic Disorder must be differentiated from other Pervasive Developmental Disorders. Rett’s Disorder differs from Autistic Disorder in its characteristic sex ratio and pattern of deficits. Rett’s Disorder has been diagnosed only in females, whereas Autistic Disorder occurs much more frequently in males. In Rett’s Disorder, there is a characteristic pattern of head growth deceleration, loss of previously acquired purposeful hand skills, and the appearance of poorly coordinated gait or trunk movements. Particularly during the preschool years, individuals with Rett’s Disorder may exhibit difficulties in social interaction similar to those observed in Autistic Disorder, but these tend to be transient. Autistic Disorder differs from Childhood Disintegrative Disorder, which has a distinctive pattern of developmental regression following at least 2 years of normal development. In Autistic Disorder, developmental abnormalities are usually noted within the first year of life. When information on early development is unavailable or when it is not possible to document the required period of normal development, the diagnosis of Autistic Disorder should be made. Asperger’s Disorder can be distinguished from Autistic Disorder by the lack of delay in language development. Asperger’s Disorder is not diagnosed if criteria are met for Autistic Disorder.