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Testing Sensory and Multisensory Function in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Published on: April 22, 2015
Medical investigation of children with autistic spectrum disorders
1Neurosciences Unit, Great Ormond Street Children's Hospital NHS Trust, London, UK. cassh@gosh.nhs.uk
Insights
Investigating medical conditions in children with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) is challenging due to population heterogeneity. This review guides effective diagnostic strategies for better management and therapy.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Medicine
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Clinical Diagnostics
Background:
- Systematic evaluation of medical investigation protocols for autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) in children is limited.
- The heterogeneity of the ASD population and evolving diagnostic criteria contribute to this research gap.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing studies on investigation strategies for children with ASD.
- To discuss the clinical application of these strategies.
- To emphasize the importance of a structured approach to medical investigations in ASD.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies evaluating medical investigation protocols for ASD.
- Analysis of how identified strategies can be applied in clinical settings.
Main Results:
- Few well-constructed studies exist.
- Clinical presentation and thorough history/examination are crucial for guiding investigations.
- Pre-test probability assessment is key for test utility.
Conclusions:
- A systematic approach, informed by clinical presentation and patient history, is essential for effective medical investigations in children with ASD.
- Utilizing pre-test probabilities enhances the diagnostic value of investigations.
- Improved diagnostic strategies can better direct therapy and management for children with ASD.
Abstract:
Few well-constructed studies have systematically evaluated medical investigation protocols for children with autistic spectrum disorders. This is in large part due to the heterogeneous nature of the population and changing diagnostic frameworks. This review outlines the studies that have directed investigation strategies to date, and discusses how these might be applied in the clinical situation. The importance of listing the conditions that may be present on the basis of the specific clinical presentation, and using a thorough history and examination to generate a pre-test probability of the target disorders is emphasized if tests are to be useful in directing therapy or broader management approaches.
