What does LFA mean in DISEASES

Definition

LFA stands for Low-Functioning Autism (or in medical terminology, Autistic Disorder). This diagnosable disorder is characterized by problems understanding nonverbal cues such as facial expressions or body language; difficulty expressing thoughts verbally; limited interests or activities; and significant impairments in adaptive behaviors such as self-care, communication, work skills, leisure activities, and social skills. People with LFA may also have difficulty initiating contact or forming relationships with others as well as repetitive motor movements or odd motor movements such as flapping hands or spinning objects. Finally, people with LFA often struggle with sensory processing issues such as hypersensitivity to touch or sound.

Diagnosis

The diagnostic criteria for LFA include the presence of delayed expressive language development prior to the age of three years old along with significantly impaired social functioning across various settings (i.e., home, school). Additionally, symptoms must be present in at least two developmental domains such as communication skills, daily living skills (self-care), socialization skills (interacting/understanding others), perceptual/motor functioning (fine/gross motor tasks), play behavior (enjoys games?), cognitive abilities (ability to problem solve?), and emotional regulation/behavioral responsiveness (responds appropriately?). These criteria are based on the 5th edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders commonly referred to as DSM-V. It is important to note that a diagnosis can only be made after careful assessment from a mental health professional within the field of autism spectrum disorders.

Treatment

Once someone has been diagnosed with LFA they will typically receive support from a multidisciplinary team that consists of professionals such as psychologists, speech therapists, occupational therapists etc… Treatment for those living with low functioning autism focuses on helping an individual build independent life skills and maximize their potential while teaching them how best to communicate their wants/needs effectively. Behavioral interventions are commonly used in order to reduce maladaptive behaviors that can interfere with learning new skills while teaching individuals strategies on how best manage stressors in their environment. Additionally therapies like speech therapy focus on improving verbal communication abilities while occupational therapy helps build fine motor control for everyday activities like getting dressed or brushing teeth etc…. Lastly medication may occasionally be prescribed if behavioral intervention alone is not enough for managing some associated symptoms such as anxiety or cognitive deficits.