Childhood Disintegrative Disorder

Alternate Names : Disintegrative Psychosis, Heller Syndrome, Dementia Infantilis

A child with childhood disintegrative disorder develops normally for the first 2 years. At 3-4 years of age, the child shows marked deterioration of his or her intellectual, social, and language skills. Childhood disintegrative disorder is a type of pervasive developmental disorder.

What is going on in the body?

The typical child with childhood disintegrative disorder develops normally for the first 2 years. He or she has age-appropriate verbal and nonverbal communication and social relationships. The child's play and adaptive behavior are normal. At about age 3 or 4, the parents may notice that something is different about their child. The child begins to show a loss of previously attained abilities.

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

The cause of childhood disintegrative disorder is unknown. It has, however, been associated with seizure disorders. It appears likely that this condition is the result of some insult to the developing central nervous system. It is more common among males.