Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and autism are both general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors. They include autistic disorder, Rett syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder, pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) and Asperger Syndrome. ASD can be associated with intellectual disability, difficulties in motor coordination and attention and physical health issues such as sleep and gastrointestinal disturbances.

Source: www.Autismspeaks.org

Autism Speaks: http://www.autismspeaks.org/

National Institute of Health: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0002494/

Kids Health:

http://kidshealth.org/kid/health_problems/brain/autism.html