Autistic Spectrum Disorders

Question 1

What is autism spectrum disorder?

Answer 1

Neurodevelopmental condition characterised by qualitative impairment in social interaction and communication as well as repetitive stereotyped behaviour, interests, and activities

Question 2

Clinical features of ASD

Answer 2

Behaviours present during early childhood (typically before 2-3)

Spectrum of features

Impaired social communication and interaction

Repetitive behaviours, interests and activities

Intellectual or language impairment

Question 3

Common associations of ASD

Answer 3

ADHD

Epilepsy

Question 4

Non-pharmacological management for ASD

Answer 4

Applied behavioural analysis (ABA)

ASD preschool program

Treatment and Education of Autistic and Communication related handicapped CHildren (TEACCH)/Structured Teaching method

Early Start Denver Model (ESDM)

Joint Attention Symbolic Play Engagement and Regulation (JASPER)

Question 5

Pharmacological management of ASD

Answer 5

SSRIs may help repetitive stereotyped behaviour, anxiety and aggression

Antipsychotics reduce aggression, self-injury

Methylphenidate: ADHD