The Blueberry Syndrome

Abstract

Too-inclusive and too-rigid classifications of childhood emotional disorders have led diagnosticians to overlook conditions which do not fit under accepted labels. Recently this author has encountered a hitherto unnamed disorder which he calls the Blueberry syndrome, and which shares some features with autism, childhood psychosis and mental retardation, but also differs significantly from all of these. Its principal manifestations are lack of speech, low frustration tolerance, and aggressive response to invasion of personal space. Onset follows a normal pre- and perinatal period, with no evidence of brain damage or emotional disorder. There is mental retardation secondary to language deficits, but no social withdrawal, overwhelming anxiety, or obsessive need for sameness. The children come from the lower socioeconomic strata and from either intact or broken families. Etiology is unknown but may involve genetic mutations affecting development of the cerebral speech area. Treatment focuses on improving present satisfactions and functioning.