CAMH

Question 1

AUTISM SPECTRUM CONDITIONS

i) what are the two main criteria for dx?
ii) is it harder to ident in girls or boys
iii) when may things ‘decompensate’
iv) how is treatment approached? what can be done if extreme behaviours are seen

Answer 1

i) 1) persistent deficits in social communication and interaction across multiple contexts
2) restricted or repetitive patterns of behaviour

ii) girls
iii) signficant life changes eg starting school, moving school

iv) co morbidity needs to be ident and treated
- use charity support
- if extreme behaviour - positive behavioural support plans
- risperidone may be used but small evidence base

Question 2

ADHD

i) what is it? does it affect boys or girls more
ii) name three symptoms
iii) how is it characterised? (3)
iv) name three psych interventions that can be done
v) what medication is given first line? what is second and third line? how long do medicaiton effects last? what does it manage?
vi) name three SE of medication
vii) what do 80% of children also present ith?

Answer 2

i) neurodevelopmental disorder
M:F 4:1

ii) impaired attention, hyperactivity, impulsivity

iii) functional impairment in multiple settings
- symptoms present before the age of 7
- not explained by other causes eg trauma, domestic violence

iv) psychoeducation, social/behav intervention at home and school. CBT

v) first line - methyphenidate, 2nd dexamfetamine, 3rd atomoxetine
- effects lasts 4-16hrs useful for school period
- manages symptoms

vi) SE - reduced appetite, insomnia, growth retardation
vii) co morbid disorders such as mood disorder, disruptive behaviour, austism, anxiety, tics, learning difficulties