After completing this article, readers should be able to:
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) includes a continuum of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by deficits in social communication and interactions, along with restrictive, repetitive patterns of behaviors, interests, and activities. (For this article, ASD and autism are used interchangeably.) Pediatric clinicians can significantly affect the outcome of children with ASD by making an early diagnosis and providing referral for evidenced-based behavioral treatment. By recognizing the early signs and symptoms of autism and addressing common comorbid concerns, such as sleep problems, gastrointestinal problems, seizures, and behavioral and psychiatric concerns, as well as being aware of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies, clinicians can provide a more comprehensive medical home for their patients and parents.
Recent data from the National Survey of Children’s Health from 2011–2012, which estimates parent-reported ASD diagnoses for school-aged children, placed the current prevalence of autism at 2%. (1)...
Comments