Clinical Approach in Autism: Management and Treatment

Abstract

By definition, in autism the social deficits are characterized by lack of interest in spontaneously sharing feelings, different levels of communication deficits, difficulties in imaginative plays, restrictive repertoire of interests, non-functional routine fixations, as well as stereotypies and other motor alterations, such as flapping with hands, circular movements and others (Nikolov, Jonker, and Scahill 2006; Gadia, Tuchman, and Rotta 2004). While the criteria of the DSM-V (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-Fifth Edition) are not yet published, we still have to use the "older version". According with the DSM-IV criteria, there are five clinical situations that could be encompassed by the term "PDD" (Pervasive Developmental Disorders) or "ASD" (Autism Spectrum Disorders) with the same meaning of PDD or autism (Association 2002). Although it will change in the near future, the five current clinical ASD diagnosis admitted by DSM-IV-TR (Gadia et al., 2004) are: a) Autistic Disorder; b) Asperger Disorder (AD); c) Rett Disorder; d) Childhood Disintegrative Disorder; e) PDD-NOS (Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified).

High use of complementary and alternative medication among children with autism is not associated with the severity of core symptoms

“…This finding replicates the results of a recent study that identified hyperactivity and irritability to be associated with children's CAM use [15]. Externalizing behaviours in ASD are often treated with psychotropic medication [44], specifically methylphenidate (Ritalin) [45][46][47] and Dexamphetamine (Dexedrine) [48,49]. It is possible that the link between psychotropic medication and CAM use observed in the current study is a reflection of parents seeking multiple medications to treat the same behaviours in a bid to find an effective treatment for their child with ASD-a life-long condition.…”

The Impact of Neuroimmune Alterations in Autism Spectrum Disorder

“…There are two complementary issues in the clinical approach for autism. The first is the general management, including diagnosis and evaluation of the intensity level of eventual core behavioral symptoms ( 9 ). The second considers treatment options, such as psychopharmacotherapy and different types of non-medical treatments.…”

Pharmacogenomics and non-genetic factors affecting drug response in autism spectrum disorder in Thai and other populations: current evidence and future implications

“…Risperidone was approved in 2006 by the FDA at a typical dose of 1–3 mg/day. In 2009, aripiprazole was ratified by the FDA at a typical dose of up to 15 mg/day ( Riesgo, R., Gottfried, C., & Becker, 2013 ; Lord et al, 2018 ; DeVane et al, 2019 ; Hongkaew et al, 2021b ; Biswas et al, 2022b ).…”