4: Autism spectrum disorder Flashcards
What is the presentation of ASD?
Triad of communication problems, difficulty with social interactions and inflexibility of thought/imagination
Plus repetitive behaviours (e.g movements, speech tics)
When does ASD typically present?
What are some genetic diseases causing presentations which mimic ASD?
Down’s syndrome
Fragile X syndrome
many more
What is a disorder, defined as having an IQ < 70 and a lack of function, which mimics ACD?
Learning disability
What are some disorders which come under the umbrella term ASD?
Asperger’s syndrome (most common cause of autism)
Rett’s syndrome (neurodevelopmental disease)
Childhood autism …
In terms of communication problems re: autism, what does lack of reciprocity mean?
Narrow interests predominate their conversations, difficulty changinthe subject
In conversation, what may “go over the heads” of autistic people?
Jokes
Sarcasm
Metaphors
People with autism struggle to make and sustain ___.
relationships
Why may patients with autism appear self-focused and unempathetic?
Difficulty understanding social situations
Patients with autism have a lack of ___ in their thoughts and ideas.
flexibility
can’t think from other perspectives, think abstractly, plan ahead
Patients with autism have a need for daily ___ and repetition.
routines
repetition
What is the prevalence of ASD?
1-2% of the population
ASD is more common in (boys / girls).
boys
ratio to girls is 5:1
Which hormones are thought to be involved in the development of ASD?
Sex hormones
most likely testosterone
Which vaccine has been proven NOT to cause autism?
MMR vaccine
but some still believe that it does
Why is autism thought to have a genetic component?
High concordance (90%) in monozygotic twins
Which odd sensory disturbances can be seen in autism?
Hyper or hypoawareness to sensory stimuli
Which brain structures are thought to be affected in ASD?
Frontal lobe
Amygdala
Cerebellum
Ideally, ASD should be diagnosed when?
In childhood
so prompt management can be put in place
What can be used to help diagnose ASD?
Child health history, collateral history from relatives
Screening tools
ASD is managed using lifestyle changes and drugs only for ___ treatment.
symptomatic treatment only
Which antipsychotic can be used to manage aggression in patients with ASD?
Risperidone
