Title: Autism Spectrum Disorder : Evaluation and Management

Abstract:

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) refers to neuro-developmental disorder characterized by persistent deficits in social communication and restricted, repetitive pattern of interests and behavior beginning in early developmental period. The assessment and management of ASD is complex, due to its multifactorial etiology, persistence into adulthood, presence of co- occurring mental and physical disorders and attendant disability. Making a diagnosis of ASD requires the multidisciplinary assessment of current symptoms, acquisition of a developmental history from a primary caregiver and the exclusion of alternative diagnoses by the clinician. The evaluation should include a complete history and direct assessment of social communication skills and restricted, repetitive behaviors using a semi-structured tool. Medications can be used as adjunctive treatment for maladaptive behaviors and comorbid psychiatric conditions, but there is no single medical therapy that is effective for all symptoms of autism spectrum disorder. There is a growing body of evidence that early intensive behavioral intervention based on applied behavior analysis improves cognitive ability, language, and adaptive skills. Therefore, early identification of autism spectrum disorder is important, and experts recommend the use of a validated screening tool at 18- and 24-month well-child visits. It is acknowledged that early detection constitutes a major advance in that it enables prompt intervention that may improve prognosis in a significant proportion of children with ASD. In this paper we will discuss the evaluation and management of ASD. The aim of this paper is : 1. To provide systematic and formal approach to comprehensive management of families of children with Autism spectrum disorder. 2. Empower parents to take care of the child and promote overall development through carefully planned home training program 3. Enable child to reach its optimum potential by improving the deficits and focusing on strengths 4. Improve quality of family functioning and relationships

Biography:

Amrit Kahlon is a doctor by profession and work in one of the private hospitals in Punjab, India. She hold a graduate degree in Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery and am currently pursuing for residency in the United States. She have 2 years experience of working as a Medical Officer in a multi-speciality hospital. She have presented a poster presentation on ‘Mobile Phone Addiction in adolescent medical students - A Modern Health problem requiring a Modern Health Solution’ at World Congress on Medical & Health Sciences in Dubai.