Autism

Question 1

Autism
-epidemiology
-what is it

Answer 1

3x more common in boys
50% have ASD with intellectual disability

Neurodevelopmental disorder
-qualitative impairment in social interaction and communication
-repetitive stereotyped behaviours, interests, activities
On a spectrum

Question 2

Autism
-typical clinical features
-associations

Answer 2

Social communication impairments and repetitive behaviours evident before 2-3

Impaired social communication and interaction
-play alone, uninterested in other children
-fail to regulate social interaction with non verbal cues (eye gaze, facial expression, gesture)

Repetitive behaviours, interests, activities
-stereotyped, repetitive motor mannerisms
-inflexible adherence to nonfunctional routines/rituals
-particular way of going about daily activities

Higher head circumference:brain volume

Associated with
-intellectual/language impairment
-ADHD
-epilepsy

Question 3

Autism diagnosis

Answer 3

Assessment
-ask about any problems you or your child is having
-watch how you/your child interact with others
-speak to significant people (teachers, family, friends)

Question 4

Autism management

Answer 4

Goal is to increase functional independence and QOL

Non med therapy - early educational and behavioural interventions like
-Applied behavioural analysis
-ASD preschool program
-Early Start Denver Model

Meds may help for specific symptoms
-SSRIs - anxiety, aggression
-antipsychotics - aggression, self injury
-methylphenidate for ADHD

Family support and counselling
-education on interacting with their child