Neurodevelopmental disorder

Neurodevelopmental disorders are a diverse group of complex behavioral and cognitive conditions caused by abnormal or disrupted development of the brain, or by injury or infection during early childhood. They generally appear in early childhood, usually at pre-school age, and can persist into adulthood. They differ from neurocognitive disorders, which are acquired rather than developmental. The DSM-5 sorts them into six groups: intellectual disabilities, communication disorders, autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, motor disorders and specific learning disorders. More than one may be present at once, giving overlapping symptoms. Some, such as Down syndrome, have a genetic cause, while other possible causes include prenatal stress, fetal exposure to toxicants, pollution, infections and traumatic brain injury. Treatment is targeted at the specific disorder and may include medications and other interventions.