Regressive autism is a type of autism in which a child with normal development in early childhood experiences regression in areas such as language, social interaction and communication skills around the age of 1.5-3. While the child may initially be able to use words, make eye contact and participate in social interactions, after a while these skills may be reduced or lost. This decline is particularly evident in language skills and the child may stop using words or sentences they have learned.
There is also a decline in social skills, such as playing games or interacting with others. The causes of regressive autism are not known exactly, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic, neurological and environmental factors.
Regressive autism is a type of autism in which children lose some of the skills they have acquired during development, especially language and social interaction skills. This usually occurs between 15 and 30 months. While initially developing like their peers, children may suddenly stop using the words they have learned, weaken their social ties and lose interest in the environment. This regression can be quite surprising and worrying for some families, as it is not expected that children will reach a certain level of development and then regress in these skills.
What Causes Regressive Autism?
The exact cause of regressive autism is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic, neurological and environmental factors. Here are some theories about the causes of regressive autism:
Genetic Factors: Genetic predisposition may play an important role in regressive autism. Children with a family history of autism spectrum disorder or other neurodevelopmental disorders may be at higher risk of developing regressive autism. Some genetic mutations and variations associated with autism can affect brain development and communication between nerve cells, leading to regressive autism.
Neurological Developmental Problems: Some problems in brain development can cause children to lose skills they learned early on. For example, an imbalance of neurotransmitters that enable nerve cells to communicate or differences in brain connections can be effective in the development of regressive autism. In cases where the connections between nerve cells are misconfigured, children may lose developmental skills.
Immune System and Inflammation: Some research examines the role of the immune system in autism spectrum disorder. Abnormal responses of the immune system or inflammation in brain tissue can affect the nervous system and cause regressive autism. In particular, the complex relationship between the brain and the immune system can lead to some of the symptoms associated with autism.
Environmental Factors: Environmental factors are also thought to play a role in the development of regressive autism. For example, exposure to certain chemicals or toxins can affect the development of the nervous system. However, whether environmental factors directly cause regressive autism is still controversial and more research is needed.
Mitochondrial and Metabolic Abnormalities: Mitochondrial dysfunctions can create problems in the body's energy production process. Since the brain is an organ with high energy needs, such metabolic problems can negatively affect brain development and cause children to regress in the skills they learn.
Gut-Brain Axis and Microbiota: The theory that gut health has an impact on brain development and behavior may also apply to autism spectrum disorders. Imbalances in the gut microbiota or problems with the gut-brain axis can negatively affect children's brain development. Although this link has not yet been fully proven, the possible impact of gut health on regressive autism is still under investigation.
As a result, it is thought that regressive autism does not have a single cause and may be caused by a combination of a number of biological, genetic and environmental factors.
Regressive Autism Treatment
Various therapy and intervention methods are applied in the treatment of regressive autism. Child and Adolescent Development & Autism Center (ÇEGOMER), which provides support in the developmental processes of children diagnosed with regressive autism, offers guidance for families.
It provides guidance to parents and experts in the treatment and support processes of developmental regressions seen in children such as regressive autism. Programs tailored to the needs of the child include efforts to help children with regression in language, social interaction and communication skills regain skills. This center makes it easier for families to find the right support to meet their child's developmental needs.
Treatment of regressive autism includes a variety of therapies and interventions to manage symptoms. These treatments aim to restore the child's lost social, communication and language skills. Although there is no definitive cure for regressive autism, early diagnosis and the right approach can significantly improve children's quality of life. Here are the most commonly used methods to treat regressive autism:
1. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
ABA is one of the most widely used behavioral therapy methods in the treatment of autism. It focuses on reducing the child's problematic behaviors and replacing them with social and communication skills. ABA therapy aims to reinforce desired behaviors through rewards and reinforcement.
2. Speech and Language Therapy
The most common regression in regressive autism is in language and communication skills. Speech and language therapy involves individual work to improve the child's lost or weakened language skills. Through this therapy, the child goes through a process of relearning words and sentences and develops self-expression skills.
3. Occupational Therapy (Occupational Therapy)
Occupational therapy aims to improve the child's motor skills and daily living skills. This type of therapy especially helps to overcome problems with social interaction and sensory processing. Occupational therapists create individual programs to support the child's play skills, physical coordination and self-care abilities.
4. Social Skills Training
In regressive autism, children may have difficulty with social interaction. Social skills training teaches children to communicate with other individuals, make friends and participate in social settings. These skills are developed through play-based activities or group therapies.
5. Sensory Integration Therapy
Sensory sensitivities are common in children with regressive autism. Sensory integration therapy allows the child to better adapt to sensory stimuli such as touch, hearing and sight. The therapist organizes specific activities to reduce or manage the child's sensitivity to sensory stimuli.
6. Family Education and Counseling
Family support is very important in the treatment of regressive autism. Families can contribute to the treatment process by attending therapies and supporting the child in daily life. Family education enables parents to better understand the child's needs, manage problem behaviors and create a home environment that is suitable for the child.
7. Medication (when necessary)
The main treatment for regressive autism is based on therapies, but in some cases medication can also be supportive. Especially if there are accompanying symptoms such as excessive anxiety, attention deficit, hyperactivity or sleep problems, the doctor may recommend appropriate medication to alleviate the symptoms. Medication is preferred when necessary and under the supervision of a specialist.
8. Alternative therapies and dietary supplements
Some families have tried alternative methods to treat regressive autism, such as dietary changes (e.g. gluten-free-casein-free diet) or vitamin/mineral supplements. However, scientific data on the efficacy of these treatments is limited, so it is important to consult a specialist doctor before implementing alternative approaches.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Early intervention is critical in the treatment of regressive autism. Research shows that therapies that start at an early age are much more effective in improving children's social, language and learning skills. Therefore, it is important for families to seek expert support as soon as they see signs of regression in their children.
The treatment process for regressive autism requires patience and continuity. Since each child's needs are different, treatment plans should be determined individually.
What is the Difference Between Progressive and Regressive Autism?
Progressive and regressive autism refer to two types of autism spectrum disorder that develop differently. The main difference between these two types relates to how the symptoms of autism emerge and progress during the child's developmental process.
1. Regressive Autism
Developmental Process: In regressive autism, children initially show typical development. In their first years of life, language, social interaction and play skills develop normally or close to normal. However, between 1.5 and 3 years of age, the child experiences a sudden regression. There is a marked loss of language and social skills; the child stops using learned words, phrases or social behaviors.
Distinctive Features: The most distinctive feature of regressive autism is a noticeable regression in the child. The child loses some of the skills he or she used to have and the symptoms of autism appear with this loss.
Parental Perception: Parents notice that their child's previous skills have disappeared and the child becomes more withdrawn, often quite suddenly and visibly.
Treatment and Support: In regressive autism, specialized therapies such as intensive language therapy, social skills training and applied behavior analysis (ABA) are used to restore lost skills.
2. Progressive Autism
Developmental Process: In progressive autism, autism symptoms appear slowly and continuously from birth. From an early age, the child exhibits some characteristics that do not show typical development. For example, symptoms such as not making eye contact, not responding to sounds, making repetitive movements start to be seen at an early age and become increasingly evident.
Distinctive Features: In progressive autism, there is no regression; symptoms appear gradually from birth and become more pronounced with age. The child has difficulty developing certain developmental skills before they have acquired them.
Parental Perception: Parents may notice some differences in their child's development from early on. Symptoms such as delayed language development, lack of social interaction or limited interests become increasingly visible.
Treatment and Support: In progressive autism, supports such as ABA, occupational therapy and language therapy are used to improve social and language skills. However, in progressive autism, treatment tends to start at an earlier stage because symptoms are recognized at an earlier age. Although regressive and progressive autism have different onset and progression characteristics, in both cases, treatment approaches customized to the individual needs of children are important.
Early Diagnosis in Regressive Autism
Early diagnosis of regressive autism is critical for the child to regain lost language, social and communication skills. While the child shows typical development in the first months or years, he/she starts to lose language and social skills between 15-30 months of age. If this loss is recognized by attentive parents and specialists, early diagnosis may be possible and this can make a significant difference in the child's later life.
Importance of Early Diagnosis
Early diagnosis enables intervention before the child's symptoms of autism spectrum disorder become apparent. This makes it possible to regain lost skills, support social and communication skills and reduce behavioral problems. Early interventions can increase a child's capacity to learn new skills and adapt through brain plasticity.
1. Symptoms to Look Out for Early Diagnosis
Some of the early signs to look out for in regressive autism are:
Language Regression: While the child may use a few words in the beginning, he/she suddenly stops using these words. It may be observed that the child forgets the words he/she used to say before or decreases his/her ability to form sentences.
Decreased Eye Contact: While the child used to make eye contact before, after a while they start to avoid eye contact or have difficulty interacting with others.
Decreased Social Interest: A child who was previously able to engage in social interactions may lose interest in his/her surroundings, move away from playing games and prefer to spend time alone.
Repetitive Movements: The child may show repetitive behaviors such as waving his/her hands and spinning. These behaviors are one of the early warning signs in regressing autism cases.
Sensory Sensitivities: They may develop hypersensitivity to sensory stimuli such as sudden noises, tactile stimuli or bright lights.
2. Tests and Assessment Tools for Early Diagnosis
Various assessment tools are used for early detection. These include:
M-CHAT (Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers): It is a short questionnaire used to screen for signs of autism and helps detect signs of autism in children between 16-30 months.
ADOS (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule): A standardized assessment tool used to diagnose autism that evaluates a child's social and communication skills.
Speech and Language Assessments: It is performed by language therapists to assess the child's language developmental deficits.
3. The Role of Parents and Specialists in Early Diagnosis
Early diagnosis of regressive autism relies on careful observation of the child's daily life by parents and child development specialists. It is important for parents to consult a child development specialist or child psychiatrist when they notice any regression in their child's development. Specialists can make a diagnosis by analyzing changes in the child's developmental process through detailed observations and assessment tools.
4. Early Detection and Intervention Methods
When diagnosed early, various interventions can be implemented to improve the child's social, language and motor skills:
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA): One of the most effective methods used to improve a child's social skills.
Speech and Language Therapy: It is important for the child to regain lost language skills.
Occupational Therapy: Helps the child develop daily life skills.
With early diagnosis and intervention, children with regressive autism are more likely to see significant improvements in their social, language and life skills.
What are the Symptoms of Regressive Autism?
Symptoms of regressive autism are characterized by normal development up to a certain age, followed by regression in social, communication and language skills. This regression usually occurs between 1.5 and 3 years of age and symptoms appear rapidly. Here are the main symptoms of regressive autism:
1. Loss of Language and Speech
The child loses words, sentences or speaking skills that he or she had previously acquired. For example, he or she may initially be able to use a few words but suddenly stop saying them, or lose the ability to form simple sentences that he or she used to be able to do.
2. Decreased Social Interaction
A child who was previously able to make eye contact, smile, or play games may stop showing these social behaviors after a while. Symptoms such as indifference to those around them, not responding when called by name or withdrawing from social activities are observed.
3. Decline in Play Skills
The child has difficulty in engaging in age-appropriate social interactions during play. For example, they may stop playing with toys as intended, prefer to play alone, or engage in repetitive behaviors during play.
4. Repetitive Behaviors
In regressive autism, the child may show repetitive movements such as waving their hands, spinning, snapping their fingers or obsessive interest in certain objects. These behaviors can be exacerbated in stressful or exciting situations.
5. Decreased Eye Contact
The child may stop this behavior when previously making eye contact. Avoids looking at the other person's face or eyes and seems reluctant to engage in social interactions.
6. Sensory Sensitivities
It may show hypersensitivity to sensory stimuli such as sudden noises, light, touch. For example, they may be disturbed by loud noises, develop sensitivity to certain textures or clothing, or overreact to certain tastes or smells.
7. Social Apathy and Withdrawal
The child has difficulty communicating with peers and is indifferent to his or her surroundings. They may avoid physical contact with parents or other family members or may not want to be held.
8. Anxiety and Tantrums
In children with regressive autism, sudden bouts of anxiety, worry or anger may be common. They may have difficulty adapting to changes and may overreact to changes in routine.
9. Difficulties with Motor Skills
In some cases, motor skills may also decline. The child may not be able to do some of the movements they were able to do before or may have difficulties with fine motor skills (writing, drawing, holding objects).
10. Imitation and Lack of Creativity
Children with regressive autism have difficulty imitating other people's behavior or taking part in creative play. There is a decrease in imitation skills and a reluctance to engage in social play, such as imaginative play.
Symptoms of regressive autism manifest as a sudden and noticeable regression. It is important for parents who notice these symptoms to consult a child psychiatrist or developmental specialist to have their child evaluated. Early diagnosis allows the therapies necessary for the child to regain lost skills to be started more quickly and can have positive long-term consequences.
Educational and Behavioral Therapies for Children Diagnosed with Autism
Educational and behavioral therapies for children diagnosed with autism are specifically designed to help children develop social, communication and behavioral skills. These therapies are tailored to the individual needs of the child and aim for long-term development. Here are some of the most commonly used education and therapy methods for children with autism:
1. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
ABA helps children with autism learn positive behaviors and reduce negative behaviors. It offers children intensive and structured training to learn specific skills.
Reward systems are used to improve social, communicative and academic skills.
2. Early Intensive Behavioral Therapy (EIBI)
It usually starts at an early age (2-5 years) and is an intensive therapy program tailored to the individual needs of the child. EIBI provides frequent repetitive, intensive training to develop the child's social, language and cognitive skills.
3. Sensory Integration Therapy
It is an appropriate therapy for children with autism who have sensory processing difficulties.
It helps the child to organize and process sensory information so that they can be more independent in daily activities.
4. Speech and Language Therapy
It is applied to children with autism who have communication difficulties to gain speech, gesture and language skills. It helps the child to express himself/herself through words or alternative ways of communication.
5. Social Skills Training
It is a program specifically designed to overcome difficulties in social interactions. Through games and role-playing activities, children learn to communicate with others in a healthy way.
6. Visual Aids and Structured Education (TEACCH)
Visual supports help children with autism to better understand the information around them and develop daily living skills. It makes daily routines more predictable and gives children independence.
7. Play Therapy
It aims to help children develop social and communication skills through play.
Play activities allow the child to express their feelings and bond with others.
These therapies can be applied in different combinations according to the child's individual development and are reviewed regularly during the child's developmental process. An education and therapy plan tailored to the specific needs of each child contributes to achieving positive results.
In conclusion, to learn more about regressive autism, you can review frequently asked questions and conduct detailed research. If you observe signs of regression in language and social skills in your child or your environment, you can get support from autism centers such as ÇEGOMER.