Autism Spectrum Disorder

Question 1

What is autism spectrum disorder?

Answer 1

A spectrum of conditions characterised by delayed intellectual, communicative and social development, together with stereotyped behaviour and circumscribed interests

Question 2

What are some common clinical features of ASD?

Answer 2

• Marked impairment of eye-to-eye gaze and communicative gestures
• Failure to develop peer relationships
• Lack of socio-emotional reciprocity
• Impaired capacity for joint attention
• Incapacity for make-believe play
• Failure to imitate others
• Delay of language development
• Unusual use of language
• Stereotyped, restricted interests and rituals
  Motor mannerisms

Question 3

How do you work up patients with ASD?

Answer 3

• Physical Exam
• Dental exam
• Hearing and vision assessment
• Psychological testing for cognitive level and pattern of intellectual ability
• Speech and language assessment
• Genetic and metabolic testing to exclude known genetic and biological causes
  EEG

Question 4

What are some DDx for ASD?

Answer 4

• Development language disorder
• ID
• Sensory impairment eg deafness
• Selective mutism
• Severe psychosocial deprivation
  Mild forms of pervasive developmental disorder