At the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) Benioff Children`s Hospital, a study was conducted to examine the structural connections of the sensory area of the brain in children with ASD, DBS, and typically developing boys. Using an advanced type of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) called diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), a measurement was performed to collect information about the white matter pathways of the brains of all three groups. White matter contains the connections that connect different areas of the brain that help a person with cognition, perception, and movement so they can see, think, and react to something. Thanks to the imaging, the researchers were able to see the path of the white matter „threads” as well as the cohesion. One description I found very helpful in thinking about how it might feel for an autistic person experiencing sensory processing problems comes from Anita Lesko. She explained: The assessments are for families who don`t know if the behaviors they see are due to an underlying sensory need. For families who have concerns and want to know what they can do to help their child. And for families tired of waiting for support from national services. In terms of sensory problems, most of the information relates in two ways: sensory processing disorders (SPD) and autism (ASD) are two conditions that may exist without each other or may be comorbid. A clear distinction between the two is important, especially since the SPD can resemble autism. DBS is diagnosed by an occupational therapist trained in sensory integration. A child with DBS can easily be misdiagnosed for a child with ASD due to sensory processing problems/symptoms experienced by children with autism. As I have defined in previous blogs, ASD is a neurological disorder that interferes with normal brain function and significantly affects the development of a person`s communication and social interaction skills.
The SPD was formerly known as „sensory integration dysfunction.” Our neurological system helps process signals received by our senses by converting them into appropriate motor and behavioral responses. Therefore, SPD influences how a person receives, integrates and makes sensory information meaningful. I came across this article and thought it would be a good article to share! Although autism awareness is on the rise, fewer people are aware of sensory processing disorder (SPD). If you want general information about SPD and autism, visit the websites below: Write the full form of SPD and ASD. Autism Response SPECTRUM DISORDER (ASD) Sensory PROCESSING DISORDER (PDS) ABBREVIATIONS IN PHYSICAL EDUCATION SPD – Sensory processing disorder ASD – Autism spectrum disorder ADHD – Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder ODD – Oppositional defiant disorder OCD – Obsessive-compulsive disorder DHD – CPR hyperactivity deficit disorder – Cardiopulmonary resuscitation TOTAPS – Speaking, observing, touching, Active movement, Passive movement, RICER Dexterity Test – Rest, Ice, Compression and Altitude Sensing Processing Disorder (SPD) occurs when sensory information entering the nervous system is processed incorrectly, resulting in inaccurate reactions, recognition, perceptions, or awareness of a person. Irregularities in sensory processing are usually detected and treated as hypersensitivity or decreased recording or perception of sensory information. There is debate among doctors about whether SPD is a separate disorder. Some doctors argue that this is not the case. Some say it a diagnosis for things that could be explained as common behaviors in children. Others say some children are simply very sensitive.
Some doctors say SPD is a symptom of other disorders — such as autism spectrum disorder, hyperactivity, attention deficit disorder, anxiety, etc. — rather than a disorder itself. Other doctors believe that your child can have DBS without having another disorder. Some say it clear that some children have difficulty managing regular sensory information (stimuli). At present, the SPD is not recognized as an official medical diagnosis. In addition, a qualified and trained therapist can perform an assessment called a Sensory Integration and Practice Test (PTIS) or Sensory Processing Measure (PMS). ISPRS measures sensory processing or sensory perception in children aged four to eight years and 11 months, in relation to language skills development, social interactions, and academic performance. PMS measures sensory processing, planning or ideas (practical) and social engagement at home, school and other social domains. Sensory processing is how a person`s brain perceives sensory information and how that person reacts to that information.