MEDICAL INTERVENTIONS
The parent-medical professional collaboration is key in obtaining guidance and direction needed for early intervention services as well as understanding the disability. Autism is one of the fastest growing chronic disorders in children, affecting 1 in 150 children. Pediatricians hold a position wherein surveillance of children’s developmental trajectories is performed on a regular basis because of the scheduled well child visits. They hold an important role in picking up the early signs of deviant patterns of development that may signal a problem. Parents are really the experts, they are more knowledgeable about their children than pediatricians are, hence, their observations of what is concerning are highly valuable in helping identify potential problems.
In addition to the medical professional, the diagnosis can be confirmed through appropriate evaluations and testing involving a team of specialists, including psychologists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, etc. The medical history and physical/neurological examinations are also essential in determining if there is a genetic or neurological etiology of the child’s developmental presentation. Even if a majority of developmental disorders have unknown causes, there are screening tests (hearing, lead testing), laboratory (chromosome, metabolic work up) or imaging studies (MRI, EEG), which might lead to definitive diagnosed conditions, all guided by the history and physical exam. Medical specialists may also offer the latest evidenced based information which might dispel myths about autism, related to its etiology, associated factors (diet, vaccines) and the many forms treatment that are available.
The brain is highly malleable and is maximally growing from birth to three years of age. The medical specialist can refer the child immediately to the Early Intervention Program for behavioral strategies, language stimulation and social skills training once the child is diagnosed. Children with autism spectrum disorders are often behaviorally challenged because of their social and communication deficits. Besides addressing the specific delays with speech therapy, occupational therapy, behavior therapy, or special instruction, there are also some pharmacologic interventions which can help in reducing behavioral symptoms or enhancing response to therapeutic interventions.
The prognosis for a child diagnosed with autism can be positive if identified early and if appropriate and intensive services are given. Hence, the parent-medical professional partnership is an integral part of the multidisciplinary team and can make a dramatic difference in a child’s life.
Courtesy of Rica Vizarra-Villongco, MD, Columbia University Medical Center
New York, NY, (212) 342-1600, Villongr@childpsych.columbia.edu
All Rights Reserved
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