The Comprehensive Guide to Autism

Autism is a complex multifaceted disorder affecting neurodevelopment during the early years of life and which for many remains throughout adulthood. Inherent features include difficulties or deficits in communication, social interaction and cognition, person-to-person behavioral coordination and recall, to name but a few facets. It impacts on the affected individual, family and in some cases localized communities. The increased prevalence of childhood autism has resulted in rapid developments in a wide range of disciplines in recent years, though despite intensive research however, the identification of young children is difficult, the cause(s) remain unresolved and no single treatment strategy is employed. To address these issues, A Comprehensive Guide to Autism is an all embracing reference that offers analyses and discussions of contemporary issues in the field of autism. The objective of this book is to bring together scientific material from leading experts in the field relating to a wide range of important current topics. These include the early identification of autistic children and subsequent treatment, to social and behavioral studies. The editors also recognize that recent developments in genetic and immunological studies, the influence of diet, models of autism, and future treatment methods are essential reading for behavioral science researchers, psychologists, physicians, social workers, parents, and caregivers.

Dr Vinood B. Patel is a senior lecturer in clinical biochemistry at the University of Westminster and honorary fellow at King’s College London. He directs studies on metabolic pathways involved in liver disease, particularly related to mitochondrial energy regulation and cell death. Other areas included understanding the use of visceral osteopathic treatment for autistic children, and studying this effect on behavioral and gastrointestinal alterations. Dr Patel is a nationally and internationally recognized alcohol researcher and was involved in several NIH funded biomedical grants related to alcoholic liver disease. Dr Patel has edited several biomedical books and has published over 150 articles. Professor Colin R. Martin is chair in mental health at the University of the West of Scotland and adjunct professor at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, Melbourne, Australia. Professor Martin is a chartered health psychologist and a chartered scientist. He has published many scientific papers in psychology, biology, medical, and nursing journals. Professor Martin is honorary Consultant Psychologist to The Salvation Army, UK and Eire Territories and was instrumental in formulating the addictions policy of the Salvation Army (UK and Eire) over recent years to develop high quality and evidenced-based clinical care and services. Professor Victor R. Preedy is a professor in the School of Medicine, King's College London. He directs studies regarding pathology, health, nutrition, and toxicity. Professor Preedy has published over 550 articles, which includes over 160 peer-reviewed manuscripts based on original research and 90 reviews as well as 35 books.