ASD

Question 1

What is the diagnostic criteria for autism?

Answer 1

The following characteristic features manifesting within the first 3 years of life:

• Impaired social interaction
• Impairment in language and communication
• Repetitive stereotyped behaviours and interests

Question 2

What are the diagnostic criteria for Aspergers?

Answer 2

Impaired social interaction
Repetitive stereotyped behaviours

Language skills are not impaired.

Thought to be part of the higher functioning autism spectrum.

Question 3

What is the aetiology of ASD?

Answer 3

It is an epigenetic disorder.

There is a relatively strong hereditary factor, as well as there being acquired risk factors which potentially occur peri-natally, or as a response to a brain insult in early life (meningitis).

Question 4

What is the criteria for diagnosing ADHD?

Answer 4

Usually has its onset before the age of 6-7 and is characterised by:

• impaired attention
• hyperactivity and impulsivity

Symptoms must persist for 6 months and be present in more than 1 scenarios

Question 5

How is ADHD managed?

Answer 5

• Pharmacological:
-CNS stimulants such as methylphenidate (Ritalin) and dexamphetamine (shown to be effective) producing increased concentration and academic efficiency.

-Antidepressants and some antipsychotics are second line.

• Psychotherapy:
-Behavioural modification and family education are important.

• Lifestyle:

• Focussing on activities the child enjoys
• Sport allowing them to utilise extra energy

Needs to be managed by a multidisciplinary team involving:
Paediatricians, Nurses, Teachers, Parents etc

Question 6

What is the prognosis with ADHD?

Answer 6

Improvements usually occur with development and remission of symptoms usually occurring in early adulthood.

15% of patients have symptoms persisting into adulthood.

Higher no. develop antisocial personality disorders and on average those who suffered form the ADHD will hold jobs of lower standing in adulthood.