Asperger syndrome (AS), a behavioral disorder that is related to autism, is associated with abnormal social functioning and repetitive behaviors but not with a decrease in intelligence or linguistic functionality. AS may be present with several comorbid disorders including attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, and Tourette syndrome. The standard pharmacotherapies typically administered to other comorbid disorders are also prescribed to AS patients. Although medication therapy may be beneficial in stabilizing AS patients, it does not cure the disorder. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) may be an effective behavioral approach to implement, and it may also reduce the number of pharmacotherapies necessary for AS patients. The pathophysiology of AS remains unclear and the causes of AS are not known. The male-to-female ratio is 8:1 in AS. Genetic factors appear to play a role in AS because of their tendency to run in families and the high concordance in twins. However, a specific gene for AS has not been identified. Recent studies have suggested that the mutations in two X-linked genes, neuroligins NLGN3 and NLGN4 are associated with autism and AS.
See also H01662 Generalized anxiety disorder, H01653 Bipolar disorder, H01649 Schizophrenia, H01646 Major depressive disorder, and H00862 Tourette syndrome.
