ASD, in turn, is a subset of the broader autism phenotype, which describes individuals who may not have ASD but do have autistic-like traits, such as social deficits. Characteristics
As a pervasive developmental disorder, Asperger syndrome is distinguished by a pattern of symptoms rather than a single symptom. It is characterized by qualitative impairment in social interaction, by stereotyped and restricted patterns of behavior, activities, and interests, and by no clinically significant delay in cognitive development or general delay in language. Intense preoccupation with a narrow subject, one-sided verbosity, restricted prosody, and physical clumsiness are typical of the condition, but are not required for diagnosis. Suicidal behavior appears to occur at rates similar to those without ASD. Social interaction
A lack of demonstrated empathy affects aspects of social relatability for persons with Asperger syndrome. Individuals with Asperger syndrome experience difficulties in basic elements of social interaction, which may include a failure to develop friendships or to seek shared enjoyments or achievements with others (e.g., showing others objects of interest); a lack of social or emotional reciprocity (social "games" give-and-take mechanic); and impaired nonverbal behaviors in areas such as eye contact, facial expression, posture, and gesture.People with Asperger syndrome may not be as withdrawn around others, compared with those with other forms of autism; they approach others, even if awkwardly.
Cyprus facial neuromusculoskeletal syndrome is a rare autosomal dominant genetic disorder characterized by a "mephistophelian" appearance consisting of a ridged, thick triangular skin fold extending from the glabella up into the anterior fontanel, alongside other symptoms such as hypertelorism, widows peak, low-set ears, kyphoscoliosis congenita, congenital clubfoot, hip dislocation, and arthrogryposis. Additional findings include cataracts, decreased articular range of motion, ptosis, and ankylosis, and, less commonly, mild sensory deficits with muscle weakness and atrophy. It has been described in a large 3-generation Greek Cypriot family. == References ==