In May 2013, the American Psychiatric Association provided new diagnostic criteria for autism: autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The term incorporates diagnoses previously described as separate: autistic disorder, Asperger's Disorder, childhood disintegrative disorder, and pervasive developmental disorders not otherwise specified. This comprehensive book on ASD will be a valuable resource for parents, caregivers and health professionals as well, with its combination of years of practical experience and a range of skills and knowledge from its outstanding author team. This multidisciplinary health care team has a keen understanding of the goals and expectations of both the patient and families. Part 1 Possible causes ? what does the new definition mean to my child ?autism and genetics ? diagnosis ? signs symptoms of autism ? myths Part 2 New diagnosis management and ongoing management of ASD ? typical doctor/nurse visits w/Q and A ? management and treatment help through medical, alternative, psychological and behavioural therapies Part 3 Recent research shows that a gluten-free/casein-free diet is effective in reducing ASD symptoms for those people with ASDs who show GI symptoms, confirmed food allergies and suspected food sensitivities. ? 175 recipes and gluten-free/casein-free meal plans help to build a nutritious, varied and tasty diet that may improve gastrointestinal and ASD symptoms for some children. This author team has provided a comprehensive and current resource book on ASD for anyone affected by this disease. AUTHOR: R. Garth Smith, MBBS, FRCPC, is a Developmental Pediatrician and Medical Director of the Child Development Centre at Hotel Dieu Hospital in Kingston, Ontario, and a Research Board Member of the Canadian-American Research Consortium which works with over 3,000 families in the U.S. and Canada. Susan Hannah, BA, B.S.Ch., is a respected health author, a volunteer researcher at ASD-CARC, Ongwanada and a former research associate at the Department of Family Medicine, Queen's University. Elke Sengmueller, B.A.Sc., RD is a clinical dietician at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health.
