Asperger syndrome
What is Asperger syndrome?
Asperger syndrome, or Asperger’s, is a previously used diagnosis on the autism spectrum. It was one of five forms of autism defined by the DSM-IV. In 2013, Asperger syndrome and the other autism-related diagnoses were folded into the broader autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5 (DSM-5), now the DSM-5-TR.
The previous autism diagnosis categories included:
- Autistic disorder
- Childhood disintegrative disorder
- Pervasive developmental disorder, not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS)
- Asperger syndrome
- Rett syndrome
Although Asperger syndrome has been retired from use by medical professionals, some who received the diagnosis prior to 2013 still use the term and see it as an important part of their identity. Others prefer to refer to themselves as autistic. Both are correct; it is just a matter of personal choice.
Asperger syndrome symptoms
There is significant overlap in Asperger’s symptoms and ASD symptoms. Learn more about the symptoms of autism.
What is Asperger's called now?
Today, those who would have previously met the criteria for Asperger syndrome are diagnosed with level 1 ASD. There is no difference between Asperger's and autism level 1 diagnoses.
Learn more about level 1 autism and how it is diagnosed in the DSM-5-TR.