PATH - Childhood and early-onset disorders

Question 1

Attention-deficit hyperactivity

disorder

Answer 1

Onset before age 12

Limited attention span and poor impulse control.

Characterized by
hyperactivity, impulsivity, and/or inattention in multiple settings

TX: stimulants (eg, methylphenidate) +/–
cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT); alternatives include atomoxetine, guanfacine, clonidine.

Question 2

Autism spectrum disorder

Answer 2

Characterized by poor social interactions, social communication deficits, repetitive/ritualized
behaviors, restricted interests

Associated with INC head/brain size

Question 3

Rett syndrome

Answer 3

*X-linked dominant disorder seen almost exclusively in *girls

Symptoms usually become apparent around ages 1–4, including regression
characterized by loss of development, loss of verbal abilities, intellectual disability, ataxia, stereotyped hand-wringing.

Question 4

Conduct disorder

Answer 4

Repetitive and pervasive behavior violating the basic rights of others or societal norms (aggression to people and animals, destruction of property, theft)

After age 18, many of these
patients will meet criteria for diagnosis of *antisocial personality disorder

TX: psychotherapy such as CBT.

Question 5

Oppositional defiant disorder

Answer 5

Enduring pattern of hostile, defiant behavior toward authority figures in the absence of serious
violations of social norms.

TX: psychotherapy such as CBT.