Autism Spectrum Disorder

Question 1

Main features of ASD

Answer 1

• Developmental Delay
• Stereotyped and repetitive behavior
• Lack of social interest

Question 2

“Islet of precocity”

Answer 2

for example, the talent of a savant

But “savant” is old terminology

Question 3

Neurochemical abnormality detected in ASD

Answer 3

Elevated serum serotonin levels

Question 4

DDx for autism spectrum disorder

Answer 4

• Hearling loss
• Lead toxicity
• Intellectual disability – do not exhibit restricted activities/interests and do not have focal impairment in social and communication skills
• OCD – may display stereotypical behavior or perform rituals, but have otherwise normal development

Question 5

While the treatment for ASD is mostly structural, educational, and speech/occupational therapy, __ has shown utility as a means of addressing aggressive behavior, tantrums, and self-injurious behavior in autistic children

Answer 5

While the treatment for ASD is mostly structural, educational, and speech/occupational therapy, risperidone has shown utility as a means of addressing aggressive behavior, tantrums, and self-injurious behavior in autistic children

Question 6

Single best prognostic indicator for future outcomes in ASD

Answer 6

Language development