Autism. Autism Spectrum Disorder
"The possibility of accessing educational, pedagogical and support services has a beneficial effect, since even children with more severe autism have the capacity to learn some adaptive skills".
DR. ROCÍO SÁNCHEZ-CARPINTERO ABAD
DIRECTOR. NEUROPEDIATRICS UNIT
What is autism?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects the way a person perceives and relates to the world.
It is characterised by difficulties in communication and social interaction, as well as restricted and repetitive patterns of behaviour, interests or activities.
The term "spectrum" reflects the wide variability in the presentation and severity of symptoms.
Symptoms of autism
Signs of autism usually manifest in the first 24 months of life, although they can vary significantly between individuals.
Difficulties in social interaction
Some such as avoiding eye contact, not responding to name, preferring to play alone or showing a certain indifference towards playing with other children.
Communication problems
May range from the absence of language to difficulties in initiating or maintaining a conversation, use of repetitive language (echolalia) or literal interpretation of language.
Repetitive behaviours or restricted interests
Such as repetitive movements (hand flapping, rocking), strict adherence to routines or rituals, and intense fixation on specific themes or objects.
Unusual reactions to sensory stimuli
Such as hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity to sounds, lights, textures or tastes.
Do you have any of these symptoms?
If you suspect that you have any of the above symptoms,
you should consult a medical specialist for a diagnosis.
What are the causes of autism?
The exact causes of ASD are not fully understood, but it is recognised that multiple factors contribute to its development:
- Genetic: Numerous genetic variations associated with ASD have been identified.
- Neurobiological: Neuroimaging studies have shown differences in brain structure and function in people with ASD, including alterations in areas related to communication and social interaction. However, these are only detectable when looking at large groups of homogeneous patients. Neuroimaging is not useful for individual diagnosis, as it is usually normal.
- Environmental: Prenatal and perinatal factors, such as infections during pregnancy or birth complications, may increase the risk of developing ASD, although they are not the only causative factor.
What is the prognosis of autism?
The prognosis of ASD varies widely depending on factors such as the severity of symptoms, the presence of intellectual disability, language development and early intervention. Although ASD is a lifelong condition, many people can improve significantly with appropriate support.
Some indicators of improved prognosis include:
Early diagnosis and intervention: Early detection and treatment are associated with better developmental outcomes.
Functional language development before age 5.
IQ within the average range or above.
Adaptive social skills.
It is important to note that each person with ASD is unique, and many can lead a full and satisfying life with the right support.
How is autism diagnosed?
The diagnosis of autism is based on the clinical observation of the child's behaviour and development. Instruments such as the ADOS2, the most validated one, are used, which must be applied by a specialised professional: neuropaediatrician, child psychiatrist or clinical psychologist.
Criteria from manuals such as the DSM-5 are followed, which requires symptoms in social interaction, communication and repetitive behaviours, considering age. Auditory, visual, neurological and molecular biology tests are also recommended to rule out other conditions.
Treatment of autism
Treatment is based on early and accurate diagnosis of the infection, correction of facilitating factors or underlying diseases, determination of the type of candidiasis infection and the use of appropriate antifungal drugs.
Depending on the extent of the infection and the general condition of the patient, a topical or systemic treatment is decided upon.
Topically, cotrimazole, miconazole, ketoconazole, sertoconazole, terbinafine, or naftyline can be used.
The most frequently used systemic treatments are itraconazole or fluconazole.
Where do we treat it?
IN NAVARRE AND MADRID
The Neuropediatrics Unit
of the Clínica Universidad de Navarra
The Unit is part of the Department of Pediatrics and works closely with specialists from other departments to provide integrated care for children and adolescents with risk factors or diseases affecting the central nervous system and neuromuscular system.
It is made up of a team of neuropediatric specialists and psychopedagogues.
Diseases we treat
- Early development and its deviations.
- Motor control disorders.
- Global developmental disorders. Autism.
- Epilepsy in children. Dravet syndrome.
- Sleep disorders.
- Attention deficit and hyperactivity disorders. ADHD.
Why at the Clinica?
- Teamwork to offer a valuation in 24 hours.
- Most experienced nationally in Dravet Syndrome.
Our team of experts in autism
