Causes of Asperger Syndrome

The causes of Asperger syndrome are not yet known. It's likely that both genetics and environment play a role in the cause or causes of Asperger syndrome. Research is being conducted to learn more about the causes of Asperger syndrome and how it can be effectively treated. Researchers studying the causes of Asperger syndrome are collecting and analyzing DNA samples from a large group of children with the disorder to identify genes and genetic interactions linked with the syndrome.

 

Causes of Asperger Syndrome: An Overview

Scientists aren't certain of the causes of Asperger syndrome. However, it's likely that both genetics and environment play a role in the cause of Asperger syndrome.
 

What Research Is Being Done on Causes of Asperger Syndrome?

While the causes of Asperger syndrome are not known, research is being conducted to understand Asperger syndrome and how it can be effectively treated.
 
One study is using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to show how abnormalities in particular areas of the brain cause changes in brain function that result in the symptoms of Asperger syndrome and other autism spectrum disorders.
 
Other Asperger syndrome research includes testing the effectiveness of an antidepressant in individuals with Asperger syndrome who exhibit high levels of obsessive/ritualistic behavior.
 
Another Asperger syndrome research study is collecting and analyzing DNA samples from a large group of children with Asperger syndrome and their families to identify genes and genetic interactions that are linked to Asperger syndrome.
 
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD