Neurodevelopment

Question 1

What are 3 diagnostic tools for ADHD?

Answer 1

1) DSM-4
2) DSM-5
3) ICD-10

Use vanderbilt test (good to get 1 parent, 1 non-parent eg. teacher)

Question 2

How heritable is ADHD?

Answer 2

Biological only
Sibling has: 20-30% (2-3x risk)
Parent has: ~50%
Twin: 75% rate

Question 3

What are the treatments available for ADHD?

Answer 3

1) Behavioural therapy (ie. parent training program)

2) Mediations
- 1st line: Methylphenidate/ Ritalin

NOT proven:
1) qEEG
2) Cognitive remediation monotherapy
3) non-indicated macronutrients and heavy metal test
4) Brain imaging with no other clinical indication

Question 4

What is the DSM-5 criteria for ASD?

Answer 4

1) Impaired social communication and social interaction (all 3 deficits)
a) social-emotional reciprocity
b) nonverbal communication behaviours
c) developing, maintaining and understanding relationship

2/4 of:
a) stereotyped behaviours/movements
b) rigid routine
c) restricted interests
d) hyper/hypoactivity to sensory input

Question 5

How can you quickly screen for ASD in clinics?

Answer 5

after 12mths:
1) Engage child (call child’s name) and look for eye contact
2) Point and direct child to look
3) Observe for unusually movements or interests
4) “where’s mummy/daddy”
5) Elicit pointing by providing 2 objects
6) Ask to imitate

Question 6

True or false: ASD therapy should be delayed until a formal diagnosis is made.

Answer 6

False:
you do not need a diagnosis of ASD to get therapy
- early intervention leads to better outcomes for child and family

Question 7

What is the clinical criteria for GDD?

Answer 7

Impairments in 2 or more developmental domains
1) 3 word phrases, 75% intelligibility (3yrs)
2) Runs and climbs, cannot jump (2yrs)
3) Draws a circle but no alphabet letters (3 yrs)
4) Needs help wearing shorts and socks (2-3yrs)
- if all affected (good change IQ<70)