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The term "autistic spectrum disorders" covers several forms of autism ranging from lower, medium or higher functioning to Asperger syndrome, writes Natalie Valios. Those at the lower end of the spectrum are less able with a lower intelligence and often have a learning difficulty. Asperger syndrome describes people at the higher functioning end of the spectrum. Autism was first identified in 1943 by child psychiatrist Leo Kanner. In 1944, Austrian psychiatrist Hans Asperger described an "abnormality of personality", later known as Asperger syndrome. His work was not translated into English until the early 1970s and so this disability was not widely known in English-speaking countries until fairly recently. An autistic spectrum disorder is a lifelong disability with no cure, and is believed to be genetically related. It is more prevalent in males. The reason for this is unknown. Characteristically, people with autism have three impairments:

- Difficulty with social interaction, so that they may appear aloof.

- Difficulty with language and non-verbal communication, which means they do not understand gestures and facial expressions.

- Difficulty with imaginative activity. They may be excellent at retaining facts and figures but find it hard to think imaginatively.

Recent figures from the Medical Research Council show an increase in cases of autistic spectrum disorders, with as many as six in 1,000 young children believed to be affected. This may be because professionals are better at diagnosing the situation nowadays, rather than as a result of an increase in prevalence.

For more information contact the National Autistic Society on 020 7833 2299 or www.nas.org.uk or the Hoffmann de Visme Foundation on 020 8342 7310.