Childhood disintegrative disorder (CDD) is a rare neurodevelopment disorder. Although it can cause severe psychological and sometimes physical symptoms, it typically does not affect life expectancy.
Also known as Heller’s syndrome, CDD is a form of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Individuals with the condition experience a period of typical development lasting
Despite the severe loss of cognitive — which refers to a person’s thinking ability — and communication skills, children with CDD usually have a typical life expectancy.
In this article, we explore the life expectancy for someone with CDD, complications of the disorder, and treatment and management.
Because CDD is an exceedingly rare condition, affecting just
It is also a highly heterogeneous disorder, meaning there are varying degrees of symptom severity and individual outcomes. Some children may have few symptoms, while others may have more severe impairments.
That said, some sources report that affected individuals often have an average lifespan. However,
In some countries, such as Ireland, Canada, Australia, and England, people with intellectual disabilities die an average of 20 years earlier.
Contributing factors include medical issues such as epilepsy, barriers to healthcare access, and reduced participation in cancer screening programs and health-promoting activities.
Children with CDD experience a period of typical development, typically for at
Following the period of typical development, children then undergo a sharp and profound regression. This happens
When they regress, they lose previously acquired skills in various domains, including language, social interactions, and motor functioning.
The regression phase is a hallmark feature of CDD and is often distressing for both the affected individual and their caregivers. This stage can be incredibly distressing for families and caregivers.
However, the extent of regression can vary among individuals, with some facing more severe issues than others.
CDD has links to several complications, both for affected individuals and their families:
- Health issues: Epilepsy
is common in ASD, which can have serious outcomes and affect life expectancy. - Emotional and behavioral issues: Children with CDD may exhibit emotional and behavioral difficulties, such as irritability, anxiety, and aggression. These challenges can make caregiving more demanding.
- Loss of independence: As CDD leads to a loss of previously acquired skills, affected individuals often become highly dependent on caregivers for their daily needs.
- Impact on family: CDD places a significant emotional and financial burden on families. Additionally, caregivers may face stress and exhaustion while navigating the complexities of providing care and support.
Treatment for CDD primarily focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. While there is no cure for the disorder, the following are
- Behavioral interventions: Early and intensive educational interventions, often involving behavior, are essential. These interventions help address the specific needs of each individual and promote skill development.
- Pharmacological treatments: Doctors may prescribe medications to manage specific symptoms relating to CDD, such as epilepsy, aggression, hyperactivity, or anxiety.
- Supportive care: Providing a supportive and nurturing environment is crucial. Families, educators, and healthcare professionals collaborate to offer the best care and support for children with CDD.
- Speech and occupational therapy: These therapies can help improve communication and motor skills in some children. Examples include sensory enrichment and sensory integration therapy.
Families managing CDD face significant emotional and practical challenges. Here are some ways they can seek assistance:
- Family counseling and education: Family counseling provides valuable guidance on navigating the demands of CDD. Education is essential to equip families with the knowledge they need to follow a child’s treatment plan at home effectively.
- Support groups: Connecting with other families experiencing similar issues can be incredibly comforting. In-person or online support groups offer a platform for sharing experiences, seeking advice, and providing emotional support.
- Respite care: Caring for a child with CDD can be demanding, and families may benefit from respite care services. These services offer temporary relief for caregivers, allowing them to rest and recharge.
- Early intervention programs: Early intervention services may improve outcomes for children with developmental disorders. Families can explore available early intervention programs in their area, which often include speech and occupational therapy, among other services.
When a child receives a CDD diagnosis, parents or caregivers should aim to have open and informative discussions with their healthcare team. Here are some questions to consider asking:
- What is the diagnosis based on?
- What are the treatment options?
- What can I expect to happen as the condition progresses?
- How can I best support my child at home?
- Are there support services available for families?
- Are there any community or online support groups for parents and caregivers of children with CDD?
Childhood disintegrative disorder (CDD) is a rare and severe developmental disorder.
Children with CDD develop typically for a couple of years and then experience a significant regression in speech, social skills, and motor functioning.
According to research, the condition does not significantly affect lifespan.