Hyperlexia
Hyperlexia Causes
Most research suggests that all autism spectrum disorders have shared genetic mechanisms, but AS may have a stronger genetic component than autism. There is a probable common group of genes where particular alleles render an individual vulnerable to developing AS; if this is the case, the particular combination of alleles would determine the severity and symptoms for each individual with AS.
Hyperlexia Definition
Hyperlexia is a child spontaneously and precociously masters single-word reading. It can be viewed as a super ability, that is, word recognition ability far above expected levels. The most common definition also includes difficulties with comprehension of printed material beyond or even at the single-word level. Several hyperlexics also have trouble understanding speech. Probably all children with hyperlexia also lie on the autism spectrum.
Hyperlexia Diagnosis
Standard diagnostic criteria require impairment in social interaction, and repetitive and stereotyped behaviors and interests, without significant delay in language or cognitive development.
Hyperlexia Symptoms and Signs
Hyperlexic children will have a precocious ability to read but will learn to speak only by rote and heavy repetition, and may also have difficulty learning the rules of language from examples or from trial and error, which may result in social problems.
Hyperlexia Treatment
Hyperlexia treatment attempts to manage distressing symptoms and to teach age-appropriate social, communication and vocational skills that are not naturally acquired during development, with intervention tailored to the needs of the individual child, based on multidisciplinary assessment. However, progress has been made, data supporting the efficacy of particular interventions are limited.