Autism

Question 1

Autism definition

Answer 1

Developmental disorder characterised by

• impaired social interactions
• impaired communication
• restricted stereotypes
• repetitive repertoire of interests and activities
• sensitive to textures

Question 2

Causes of autism

Answer 2

• genetics - Down’s syndrome and fragile X
• obstetric complications
• toxic agents
• pre/post natal infections
• neurological disorders

Question 3

Gender epidemiology of autism

Answer 3

Male > Female (4:1)

Question 4

Differentials for autism

Answer 4

Childhood schizophrenia 
Learning disability 
Sensory impairment 
OCD 
Psychosocial deprivations

Question 5

Asperger’s syndrome

Answer 5

Mild social impairment
Pedantic speech
High verbal IQ
Intense focused interests

Question 6

Investigations for autism

Answer 6

MDT approach
Full clinical evaluations including physical exam and mental state exam
Specific developmental, educational and psychometric assessments
Rating scales

Question 7

Rating scales for autism

Answer 7

Autism behaviour checklist (ABC)
Childhood autism rating scales (CARS)
Autism diagnostic interview revised (ADI - R)
Autism diagnostic observation schedule (ADOS)
Diagnostic interview for social and communication disorders (DISCO)

Question 8

Management of autism

Answer 8

Biological:

• antipsychotics for stereotypies
• SSRIs for compulsive and self harming behaviours

Psychological:
- behavioural interventions - behaviour modification, social skills training, CBT

Social:

• symbol dictionaries and picture boards
• educational interventions
• family interventions
• SALT