Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Flashcards
What is autism spectrum disorder?
Syndrome of distinctive behavioural abnormalities including deficit in social interaction and communication
What sex is autism more common in?
M>F
4:1
What can cause autism?
Genetic, highly heritable
Neurofibromatosis
How does autisim present?
Obsessions and stereotypical interests
Stereotypical repetitive movements
Rigid and inflexible routine, anxiety when this is challenged
Sensory processing difficulty
Lack of appropriate non verbal communication such as eye contact, smiling, physical contact
Unable to read non-verbal cues
Difficulty establishing friendships
Not displaying a desire to share attention, i.e. not playing with others
How is autism managed?
Psychoeducation
CAHMS
Behavioural programmes in mainstream or specialist school
What is a learning disability?
A condition of arrested or incomplete development of the mind, which is especially characterised by impairment of skills manifested during the developmental period
What are conduct disorders?
Characterised by repetitive or persistent patterns of antisocial, aggressive or defiant behaviours which violate age-appropriate social norms
What are hyperkinetic disorders?
Characterised by core features of developmentally abnormal inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity, consistent across various settings
Give an example of a conduct disorder
Oppositional defiant disorder
Give an example of a hyperkinetic disorder
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
What sex is ADHD more common in?
M>F
5:1
What can cause ADHD?
Genetic predisposition
Psychosocial stress
- Family dysfunction
- Attachment difficulties
What is the prognosis of ADHD?
Up to 60% have residual symptoms in adulthood
How does ADHD present?
Impaired attention/short attention span
Overactivity
- Fidgeting/constantly moving
Recklessness in potentially dangerous situations
Disruptive behaviour
How is ADHD managed?
Parent training/education
School support
CAHMS
Pharmacological
- Methylphenidate
- Atomoxetine
