Autism Spectrum Disorders

A neurodevelopmental disorder in which patients suffer from pervasive difficulties with social communication and have repetitive, restricted interests and behaviors

Affects about 1% of the adult population with an estimated heritability of about 90%

Approximately 20–30% of individuals in whom autism is diagnosed also have a substance use problem as well as a higher risk of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, mood, or obsessive-compulsive disorders

Persistent issues with social communication and interactions

Repetitive behaviors, interests, or activities

Symptoms interfere with functioning

May or may not have accompanying language or intellectual impairment

National Institute of Clinical Excellence (U.K.) guidelines recommend that assessment be a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach that includes

• Interrogation of core autism spectrum disorders difficulties

• Early development

• Medical and family history

• Behavior

• Education

• Employment

• Needs assessment

• Risks

• Physical examination, with laboratory testing as indicated

• Feedback to the individual

No treatments for core symptoms have been validated

Risperidone and paliperidone

• Approved for treating irritability

• Can help with some behavioral symptoms but also carry a risk of metabolic side effects and extrapyramidal symptoms

Use of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation and vasopressin are under investigation