Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of developmental disabilities characterized by atypical development in socialization, communication, and behavior. The symptoms of ASDs typically present before age 3 years and often are accompanied by abnormalities in cognitive functioning, learning, attention, and sensory processing.The term “spectrum disorders” is used to indicate that ASDs encompass a range of behaviorally defined conditions, which are diagnosed through clinical observation of development. These conditions include: Autism, Asperger’s disorder, Rett’s syndrome, Childhood disintegrative disorder and non-autistic pervasive developmental disorders. More boys than girls are diagnosed with the ASDs above, except that only females get Rett’s syndrome.
Interesting statistics regarding age of recognition: Autism (0-36 months), Asperger’s disorder (usually greater than 24 months), Rett’s syndrome (5-30 months), Childhood disintegrative disorder (greater than 24 months)  and non-autistic pervasive developmental disorders (variable).   Refer to this link for more information on diagnostic features of ASDs.

Autism A.L.A.R.M.

Autism is prevalent:

• 1 out 6 children are diagnosed with a developmental disorder and/or behavioral problem
• Approximately 1 in 150 children are diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder
• Developmental disorders have subtle signs and may be easily missed

Listen to parents:

• Early signs of autism are often present before 18 months
• Parents usually DO have concerns that something is wrong
• Parents generally DO give accurate and quality information
• When parents do not spontaneously raise concerns, ask if they have any

Act early:

• Make screening and surveillance an important part of your practice (as endorsed by the AAP)
• Know the subtle difference between typical and atypical development
• Learn to recognize red flags
• Use validated screening tools and identify problems early
• Improve the quality of life for children and their families through early and appropriate intervention

Refer:

• To audiology to rule out a hearing impairment
• To the San Francisco Early Start Program (415-546-9222) or the Local Education Agency Therapy Unit (415-759-2895) of the local school district (do not wait for a diagnosis)
• To an autism specialist, or team of specialists, immediately for a definitive diagnosis

Monitor:

• Schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss concerns more thoroughly
• Look for conditions known to be associated with autism (e.g. seizures, sleep, GI, behavioral)
• Educate parents and provide up to date information
• Continue surveillance and watch for additional or late signs of autism and/or developmental disorders

For more information go to this link or to www.medicalhomeinfo.org.

The Autism A.L.A.R.M. article was provided by: The Department of Health & Humans Services, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), and the Medical Home Initiatives for Children with Special Needs