The Association of Autism with Self Injurious Behaviors: An Educational Article

Background: Autism disorders which are also known pervasive developmental disorders as are very complex and heterogeneous group of chronic disorders that marked by early impairment in socialization, communication, and behavior. Although the occurrence of self-injurious behaviors has been reported as early as the 1970s, this association has not been adequately emphasized. Patients and methods: The case of a 3.5-year Iraqi boy who has autism disorder and self injurious behaviors is described. Results: A 3.5-year Iraqi boy was seen because of poor communication with others and poor speech development. At the clinic, the boy was not responding to name and had no eye contact, and it was like the doctor was not visible to him at all. He was also hyperactive and was trying to leave the room. The parents were also concerned about biting his hand especially when wanted to go outside home and the family prevented him. The diagnosis of typical autism without significant mental retardation was made and the patient was initially treated with courses of intramuscular cerebrolysin based on our extensive published experiences with treatment of autism disorders. Conclusion: In this paper, the association of self injurious behavior with autism disorder is emphasized, and the uncommon occurrence in association with autism sis order without significant mental retardation is described.