DOI: 10.36347/sjams.2020.v08i09.021

Pages: 2085-2089

Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterised by difficulties in social communication and interaction. As per latest DSM 5 update variations in sensory responses were included in diagnostic spectrum of ASD. Hyper/hypo reactivity to sensory input explains the abnormal patterns of behaviours, activities or interests seen in children with ASD. Autistic children have a dysfunctional sensory system known as Sensory Integration Disorder, Sensory Integration Dysfunction or Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). In SPD, there is difficulty in processing information from the 5 classic senses, the sense of movement, and/or the positional sense. There are 2 classification systems for SPD. According to Miller’s Classification, there are three kinds of SPD namely Sensory Modulation Disorder (SMD), Sensory Based Motor Disorder and Sensory Discrimination Disorder. There are three subtypes in SMD namely Over-Responsiveness, Under-Responsiveness and Sensory -Craving. According to Schaaf’s Classification, there are five kinds of SPD namely Poor Sensory Perception, Somato Dyspraxia, Visuo Dyspraxia, Vestibular & Bilateral Integration and Sensory Reactivity. Under Sensory Reactivity there is Hyperactivity and Hypoactivity. The symptomatology of sensory dysfunction varies based on the primary senses which are predominantly involved. They may present with tactile, vestibular, proprioceptive, visual input, auditory input, taste input or smell input dysfunction. There are plenty of assessment tools for SPD diagnosis. The prominent tools include Sensory Profile, Sensory Integration and Praxis Test, Sensory Processing Measure and Evaluation in Ayres Sensory Integration. Awareness regarding the SPD in children with ASD will help to understand the disorder better ultimately leading to proper management.