Autism Spectrum Disorder Flashcards
What does Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) encompass?
A group of developmental disabilities causing significant social, communication, and behavioral challenges
CDC defines ASDs as pervasive developmental disorders. (most common type of PDD)
What is the incidence of ASD in the U.S. as reported by the CDC in 2023?
Number in kids, has it changed in recent years and what gender
- 1 in 36 children
- has increased since 2018
- 4-5x greater in boys
This represents an increase from the previous rate of 1 in 44 in 2018.
When are children typically screened for ASD
- should be screened at their 18-24 month well child check up
- can be detected early
What are the two main categories defined in the DSM-5 (2013) for diagnosing ASD?
- Persistent impairment in reciprocal social communication and social interaction
- Restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior
The DSM-5 eliminated Asperger’s disorder and other subcategories.
what is the M-CHAT R
and when is it usually given
- Modified checklist for Austism in Toddlers, revised
- given 16-30 months of age usually but can be given earlier
- consists of 20 questions
Developmental screening tools availble for ASD and what years it can be used
- ages and stages 4 months - 5 years
- child development inventory 18 months-5years
- battelle developmental screening 0-95 months
- bayley infant neurodevelopmental screen 3-24 months
- denver II developmental screening test 0-6 years
- M-CHAT (parent checklist)
- ASSQ autism spectrum screening questionnaire
- STAT screening tool for autism in 2 year olds
How is ASD diagnosed and evaluated
- clinical judgment and observations
- DSM V Criteria
- Autism spectrum disorder
if you suspect put in a referral developmental pediatrians can take a year to get in to see the eariler the ASH is identifies = better outcomes
What are the three parts of the evaluation for diagnosing Autism?
- Evaluation by a Pediatrician
- Cognitive Testing by a Psychologist or Neuro Developmental Specialist
- Autism team evaluation including various specialists
The team may consist of psychologists, pediatricians, neurologists, and therapists.
When can gross motor and movement delays first be noted
- can be noted during entire life cycle but can be as early as 4-6 months
- head control can be an indicator (should be strong and steady by 6)
What are some red flags for early movement in children with ASD?
- does not support head well by 3-4 months
- does not reach or grasp at toys by 4 months
- delayed attainment of independent sitting
- asymmetrical or abnormal pattern of crawling
- toe walking, abnomral posture
- poor coordiantion
- engages in repetitive movements or actions
These signs can indicate potential developmental issues.
Severity levels for ASD
- level 1: requiring support
- level 2: requiring substantial support
- level 3: requiring very substantial support
by 18 months how many children can be dx with ASD
- 40-50% of children with autism
- early motor abilities in young children with ASD
- GM score in 7 month olds predicted the subsequent rate of expressive, language in infants who went on to develop ASD
- early motor difficulties were related to poorer communication outcomes at 18 months in high risk infants
red flags to look for in behavior
- does not respond to cuddling
- no pointing to body parts when asked by 18 months
- no interest in playing near or with children of same age at 24 months
- no simple pretend play by 18 months
- unusual attachment to toys or strange objects
red flags to look for in communcation
- does not make and avoids eye contact while being fed
- no big smiles or warm expressions by 6 months
- no cooing or sounds when happy 6 months
- no reciprocal smiles, sounds or gestures by 9 months
- does not understand or use at least 50 words by 24 months
red flags: cognition and behavior that suggest ASD (older)
does not
- look for familiar objects that are out of sight when asked by 24 months
- use thoughts and actions together during speech or play by 36 months
- speak in normal tone or voice with an odd rhythm or pitch
- respond well to change of routine in schedules
what to look for when suspected ASD
language
- no babbling or gesturing by 12 months
- no single words by 16 months such as ma ma
- no two word phrases by 24 months
- loss of language at any age
- does not respond to name by 6 months
REFER IF ANY OF THESE OCCURS
What percentage of children with ASD displayed delays in motor development before 3 years?
62%
This statistic highlights the importance of early detection and intervention.
List some common repetitive movements or self-stimulatory behaviors in children with ASD.
- Hand Flapping
- Spinning in a circle
- Rocking back and forth
- Finger Flicking
- Head Banging
- Spinning Objects
- Lining Up Toys
- Flicking light switches on and off
- watching moving objects (ceiling fan)
These behaviors are often used by individuals with ASD for self-regulation.
True or False: There is a proven link between vaccines and autism.
False
Studies have consistently found no evidence linking vaccines to autism.
What are some dietary recommendations for children with ASD?
- Decrease sugars
- Gluten-free diet
- Melatonin for sleeping
These dietary adjustments may help improve symptoms.
Behavioral problems in kids with ASD
- poor interpersonal relationships non social
- memory problems
- stress (causes breakon) adds up over time
- anxiety
- acting out/tempertantrums
- oppositional
What are some common factors/medical concerns associated with ASD?
- Genetics
- Metabolic issues (mitochondrial disease)
- Reflux
- Bowel difficulties (celiac, inflammation, constipation)
- Allergies
- medications
- Seizures
- obesity (40% more likely)
One in four children with ASD may experience seizures.
Fill in the blank: The Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT R) consists of ______ questions.
20
This screening tool is used to assess the likelihood of ASD in young children.
What is one of the aims of physical therapy (PT) interventions for children with ASD?
Improve endurance and work
- treadmill
- ellipitcal
- jogging
- yoga,
- isometric holds
Physical activity can significantly benefit children with ASD.
What types of physical activities can children with ASD participate in?
- Yoga
- Karate
- Ice Hockey
- Baseball
- Basketball
- Horseback Riding
- Gymnastics
Engaging in these activities can promote social interaction and physical fitness.
What is a common cognitive behavior noted in children with ASD?
Does not respond to name by 6 months
This can be an early indicator of social communication challenges.
What does the term ‘hypotonia’ refer to in the context of ASD?
Decreased muscle tone
It can lead to challenges in motor control and coordination.
What are the main sensory processing issues observed in children with ASD?
- Overreacting or underreacting to sights
- Overreacting or underreacting to sounds
- Overreacting or underreacting to textures
- Overreacting or underreacting to tastes
Sensory processing difficulties can impact daily functioning.
What is the significance of individualized education programs (IEPs) for children with ASD?
They provide tailored educational plans to meet the unique needs of children with ASD
PTs can contribute to the development and implementation of IEPs.
What is the effect of poor motor skills on children with ASD?
Correlates with poor self-esteem, increased anxiety, and decreased social function
Addressing motor skills is crucial for overall well-being.
Known impairments in ASD
- core impairments
- sensory processing
- movement
- neuromotor
- MSK
- GI
impairments in motor function in ASD
- clumsiness
- impaired timing and coordination
- gait differences
- hypotonia, motor apraxia, gross motor delay
- delayed acquisition of motor skills
- physical activity and physical fitness for lifelong wellness
General treatment aims for sensory integration
- present a variety of sensory opportunities to improve skills
- set up and provide stepping stones for successful interactions with the environment
- adjust activities to the child
