Autism

Question 1

ASD definition

Answer 1

Impairment of social interaction with impairment in communication and restrictive, repetitive, stereotyped patterns of behavior, interests, and activities. Abnormal responses to sensory stimuli can also be present.

Question 2

ASD modulating factors

Answer 2

Prematurity, meconium aspiration, breech delivery, low 5-minute apgar, maternal meds, advanced parental age, autoimmune and toxin exposure

Question 3

ASD in infants

Answer 3

Passive, non-engaging, quiet, floppy, difficult, colicky, stiff, poor eye contact, fail to respond to name or gestures

Question 4

ASD in early childhood

Answer 4

Language delays, lack of social relatedness, severe behavior problems. Echolalia, lack of meaningful speech, trouble modulating their voice, decreased gestures, gaze disturbances. Detachment, decreased eye contact, lack of reciprocity, lack of fear, poor creative play, invasion of others’ space, preference to be alone, lack of social awareness. Persistent/insistent behaviors, excessive tantrums, repetitive movements, line/stack/spin toys. Rote memory without comprehension

Question 5

ASD in school age

Answer 5

Lack reciprocal friendships, ritualistic behaviors, continue with language/social/behavioral problems. Transitions are difficult.

Question 6

ASD in adolescents

Answer 6

Rote learning possible, comprehension lags. Development is uneven- severe deficits in some areas with talent in others. Other impairments include sleep problems, GI problems, and irritability.

Question 7

ASD therapies

Answer 7

ABA (applied behavior analysis), speech, occupational (sensory, play, and self-help skills), physical, and a nutritionist if needed

Question 8

ASD comorbidities

Answer 8

GI issues (abd pain, constipation, diarrhea), sleep disturbances, irritability. Also ID, ADHD, anxiety/depression, disruptive disorders, and seizures are common.

Question 9

ASD medications

Answer 9

Only for specific symptoms: attentional issues, hyperactivity, anxiety/depression, compulsive behaviors/repetitive bx, irritability, aggression, self-injurious behavior, sleep disruption.

Question 10

ASD alternative therapies

Answer 10

Nutritional strategies, mind-body thx (biofeedback, neurofeedback, music therapy, yoga), body-based (acupuncture, auditory integrative training, transcranial magnetic stim, hippotherapy, massage, Qigong)